The Recommended amount
Mention the word fluoride and people instantly think about dentistry and toothpaste. Fluoride has been a big part of public water supplies as well as dental care, and in case you didn’t know, it is also found in some foods. Fluoride is a natural mineral found in the earth’s crust. In 1931, it was discovered that people who drank naturally fluoridated water had fewer cavities. Since this time, fluoride has been added to deficient water supplies and proven to prevent cavities.
Early this year in April (2014), the American Dental Association advised that all children brush with fluoride, beginning at the appearance of the first tooth. Using only a smear of fluoridated toothpaste, the same size as a grain of rice, for children under three will help prevent the ingestion of too much fluoride. For children between 3-6 years of age, use a peasize amount. These serving recommendations ensure that children are not overexposed to fluoride, and for the younger kiddos, they are not ingesting too much. With all children, it is advised to brush both morning and evening with fluoridated toothpaste. Here is a great example of the “smear” and “rice grainsize” amounts of toothpaste appropriate for your child’s age:
This update was put in place by The American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs (CSA) in order to further prevent childhood cavities.Tooth decay is the most common childhood ailment, surpassing childhood obesity, diabetes, or asthma. Luckily, cavities are entirely preventable through preventative care including: brushing, flossing, dental sealants, fluoride, and regular visits to your child’s dentist. Have you started brushing your child’s teeth yet? If they have sprouted their first tooth, its time to start!
