What is the most common chronic disease among children in America? The answer may surprise you.
Dental caries, or cavities, continues to be the most common disease that attacks children of all ages. According to the CDC 42% of children ages 2 to 11 have had cavities in baby teeth, while 21% of those ages 6 to 11 have had cavities in permanent teeth.
What can you do to protect your child from dental caries?
Here are the simple steps we recommend:
- Establish excellent oral care at home
- Receive professional dental cleanings every 6 months
- Limit sugary foods in your child’s diet
- Get your child a pediatric fluoride treatment
The Why’s and What’s of Pediatric Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is available through various sources. Named one of the 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century, fluoridated community water has brought a great improvement in oral health since its introduction some 80 years ago. The small amount of fluoride present in water sources has been proven to diminish tooth decay by over 50%.
Fluoride is also ingested through food that has been prepared with fluoridated water.
And, of course, the most commonly known source of fluoride is fluoridated toothpaste. This aids greatly in the prevention of cavities in your child.
However, a less common but highly effective source of fluoride protection is available through pediatric fluoride treatments.
Scheduling your child for a pediatric fluoride treatment can drastically decrease their chances of developing dental caries. Fluoride treatments are available in a paste, gel or foam and are applied directly to the surface of the teeth.
Fluoride has a unique ability to strengthen enamel, as it incorporates readily into the small crystalline substance that makes up the surface of the teeth. Your child will benefit from fluoride treatments in three ways:
- Fluoride enhances remineralization of the tooth enamel.
- Fluoride inhibits demineralization of the tooth enamel.
- Fluoride makes cariogenic bacteria less able to produce acid from carbohydrates (acid is responsible for aiding in the destruction of tooth enamel).
Fluoride treatments for children are especially important for those that do not benefit from a fluoridated water supply. However, all children can benefit from pediatric fluoride treatments!
If you desire to schedule a pediatric fluoride treatment for your child but are unsure of where to go, check out Kangaroo Smiles for all of your dental needs! Dr. Mona Beylin is passionate about quality pediatric dental care in a fun and comfortable environment tailored just for kids. Schedule your appointment today by calling 978-425-1496. We can’t wait to meet your child!