People who have bought a tube of toothpaste or walked along an oral care aisle are probably familiar with fluoride. The said ingredient is like any other dental terminology not everyone knows about but is actually essential. The use of fluoride led to a well-documented decrease in cavity cases; however, some people are still hesitant to give it a go. So, to recognize fluoride as an essential tool for oral health, we at Greenbelt Dental Associates prepared important information everyone should know.
Curious to know how the use of fluoride in dental care started? It was because of Mother Nature! There are water supplies in some areas that naturally have a higher concentration of the said mineral. It was in the 1940s when dentists noticed the low cavity cases in these areas. And in the 1960s, it was recommended by the United States Public Health Service to add fluoride in municipal water supplies with the aim of cavity prevention.
Why is it Ideal to Consider Fluoride?
Here is an example scenario. Filling up a kiddie pool and letting it sit for a while will cause the water to look so disgusting that anyone won’t even let their dog, much less a kid, swim on. Public pools use chlorine in treating the water is because swimming in the pool can become risky. Although chlorine itself is a harmful chemical, it can be essential in preventing a pool from turning into a cesspool, if used correctly.
The same thing goes with fluoride. Most people may think of it as a dangerous substance, but when used in the correct concentration, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) think of it as one of the greatest public health successes in the 20th century.
Are there Downsides to be Expected?
Contrary to what most people think, there is not much risk with fluoride, but it is still best to take measures. For example, since toddlers don’t understand that swallowing fluoridated toothpaste is not good, they should not be given any. On the other hand, children aged 2 to 6 can use a pea-sized amount under the supervision of an adult since swallowing it may lead to a stomach ache. In case a child happens to ingest a large amount of the said mineral, it is best to address the concern to the dentist immediately.
To know more about Fluoride Treatment in Greenbelt, MD, call or visit us at Greenbelt Dental Associates! We are located at 7500 Greenway Center Dr. #120, Greenbelt, MD 20770.