Many parents are looking for the answer to the following question when it comes to their children's dental health: "Is fluoride harmful to children?"
The World Health Organization and various dental associations around the world; They explained in scientific reports that fluoride applications through various methods, including fluoridation of drinking water, are effective in reducing tooth decay, which is a social health problem.
For years, the American Dental Association has recommended families not to use fluoride toothpaste for their children until the age of 2. . Since 2014, they have been stating that fluoride toothpaste can be used in the form of swabs on children after their teeth erupt. Well, while even the American Dental Association is changing its mind, is fluoride really harmful for children or not?
First of all, it is useful to remember a few basic information about fluoride:
Fluoride is where tooth decay first begins. It has a preventive and even regressive effect for the period. It strengthens the tooth structure, thus making teeth more resistant to acid attacks.
New research on fluoride
Increasing number of cavities in preschool children in America, fluoride He also changed his perspective on . In some cases, the problem was so bad that children had to be put to sleep with general anesthesia and fillers had to be placed on half or more of the baby teeth.
Adding fluoride toothpaste earlier in the process was seen as a useful solution as a way to reduce these cavities in children. The American Dental Association recommends that children take some water and spit it out after brushing their teeth to prevent any fluoride poisoning (fluorosis). Fluoride poisoning means that the enamel surface of the tooth changes color by being exposed to too much fluoride. Since it is easier to implement this with a young child, it is actually best to establish this habit from a young age.
In some cases, exposure to fluoride can be associated with ADHD and other neurological conditions when ingested in large amounts. Swallowing toothpaste a few times may not be a problem, but if it becomes a habit, it can lead to more serious problems.
In this case, is fluoride harmful to children? You may still be wondering. In young children, the pain of decay can sometimes be confused with the pain of new teeth, so do not forget to see a dentist in case of any pain.
The key point in the use of fluoride is the decay of your child's teeth and other risky situations that may occur as a result of excessive use. is to create a balance.
When deciding when to use fluoride toothpaste for your child, it is important to evaluate how much fluoride he has received so far. For example, does he get fluoride from drinking water?
Another important point is your child's diet. Does he like to consume sugary foods? If he is good with sugary foods, some fluoride will be necessary to prevent his teeth from decaying.
If you are still not sure what to do, you can consult your dentist at your next appointment. The dentist will help you make the right decision about using fluoride after examining your child's teeth and asking you questions about environmental conditions.
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