Fluoride is a very important chemical that protects your teeth against decay. Fluoride increases the enamel’s resistance to acids formed in the mouth by the breakdown of carbohydrates by organisms. It has also been shown in studies to have a positive effect on tooth color.
Since sufficient mineral intake is essential for the formation of milk and permanent teeth, additional fluoride intake is particularly important for children under 16 years of age. Most fluoride is obtained through food – eating and drinking. Fluoride protects against tooth decay, which is why fluoride is added to toothpastes and rinses.
On the initiative of the Coordination Commission for Prevention Programmes of the Lithuanian Chamber of Dentists, a working group of scientists from LSMU and VU was convened to develop a joint recommendation for tooth cleaning (fluoride content in toothpaste) for Lithuanian children and adults, based on scientific evidence. For children under 3 years of age , brushing with toothpaste containing 500 ppm fluoride under parental supervision. Toothpaste should only be used to moisten the tips of toothbrush bristles. After brushing, spit out the toothpaste residue, do not rinse. For children aged 3 to 6 years , it is recommended to brush with toothpaste containing 1000 ppm fluoride under parental supervision. The amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush is the size of a pea. After brushing, spit out the toothpaste residue and rinse with a little water. Children and adults over 6 years of age are recommended to brush their teeth with toothpaste containing 1000 ppm to 1450 ppm fluoride. The amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush should be 1-2 cm. After brushing, spit out any residual toothpaste and rinse with a little water.
Fluorosis
Too much fluoride disrupts the normal formation of enamel cells and causes fluorosis, which is most common in children aged 3-8 years. Mild fluorosis can occur if a child uses too much toothpaste containing fluoride, does not rinse his/her mouth thoroughly after brushing, and swallows toothpaste constantly. Young children can swallow up to 30% of their toothpaste.
Fluorosis can affect milk and permanent teeth. Teeth affected by fluorosis initially look like snow caps on the tooth caps. If the damage is deeper, pits, erosions and crown defects may appear.
Measures that can reduce the risk of fluorosis:
- – Children should consume as much milk or milk products as possible because the calcium in milk binds fluoride compounds.
- – Vitamin C is also recommended, as it helps fluoride to leave the body more quickly and makes it harder to absorb.
- – Do not consume fluorinated salt in food.
- – If possible, the water source should be changed, as in some areas the fluoride content of drinking water can be high.
- – Use a toothpaste with 500 ppm fluoride to brush the teeth of children up to 3 years of age, and a toothpaste with 1000 ppm fluoride for children aged 3 to 6 years, followed by a very good mouth rinse.
- – Periodic check-ups of children’s teeth by specialists, consultations on care and preventive measures.
Let’s not forget that fluoride can protect our teeth from decay.
