4 WAYS TO PREVENT FLUOROSIS IN CHILDREN

August 19, 2021

Share this article

It's an exciting time in your child's life when they lose their baby teeth and their adult teeth grow in. Sometimes, a child's permanent teeth may grow in with small white streaks or stains on the tooth. In most cases, the stains are caused by a condition known as fluorosis.

Fluorosis is almost exclusive to children without adult teeth and means they have been exposed to too much fluoride. While fluoride provides a natural way to protect teeth, too much can lead to cosmetic differences in teeth. Learn about four ways to prevent fluorosis so the permanent teeth can grow without any stains or streaks.

1. Proper Brushing Techniques

When a child starts to brush their teeth, establish habits to help prevent fluorosis. The first is to limit the amount of toothpaste a child uses. During their first couple of years, you should only use a small streak of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Once a full mouth of baby teeth grows in, increase the toothpaste to the size of a pea.

If you use an excessive amount, a child may have too much fluoride exposure that builds up over time. You should also teach your child proper ways to spit after they brush. If a child swallows a lot of toothpaste, then the fluoride levels can dramatically increase. Consider having a child swish water around and spit out excess toothpaste after each brushing session.

2. Local Water Testing

The amount of fluoride found in your drinking water can make a big difference in the exposure your child has. If your home has public water, then you're supposed to receive notice when fluoride levels are higher than the recommended amount. If your home uses well water, then the only way to know is through testing.

Every couple of years, you should have your well water tested for fluoride levels. If the levels are too high, then consider alternate drinking water options. Bottled water or filtered water has better control of fluoride levels and will prevent over-exposure for your child.

3. Children's Drinks

Many healthy drinks catered to children come packed with nutrients and extras, but you should always read the labels for the drinks. Some juices or flavored waters may contain extra fluoride to help boost cavity protection in teeth, but too much consumption could lead to fluorosis.

Many natural juices contain increased levels of fluoride as well. For example, many forms of grape juices and pineapple juices contain high levels of fluoride. Prevent fluorosis by alternating drink options and limiting the amount of fruit juice in the home. Filtered water is typically the best option to prevent fluoride exposure.

4. Routine Dental Cleanings

For many, the presence of early-stage fluorosis is impossible to see. The best way to check a child's teeth is through routine dental cleaning. When your child loses their first tooth, you should schedule a cleaning. The cleaning includes a full oral exam and a dentist will take a close look at the incoming adult tooth.

If early signs of fluorosis are present, then a dentist can help you figure out ways to cut down on fluoride intake. If the fluorosis persists, then a dentist will help clean and whiten the teeth to eliminate the streaks and discoloration that may appear.

A dentist will teach a child proper ways to brush and tell them the importance of spitting after brushing. When heard from a professional, a child may be more prone to follow directions. A dentist will use visuals to showcase the proper amount of toothpaste and the best ways to rinse a mouth.

Schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team at  Desert Dental . We will help treat your child for fluorosis or any other dental problems that occur.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Recent Posts

Dental examination room, equipped with chair, cabinets, and overhead light.

Dental Problems Common Among The Elderly

November 30, 2023
It's important to keep your dental health in check as you get older. To learn more about dental issues in the elderly, read our blog to learn more.
Side-by-side comparison shows stained teeth on the left transformed to white teeth on the right, smiling woman.

Dispelling 3 Popular Myths About Teeth Whitening

September 20, 2023
Do you want to try out teeth whitening? If so, you might have heard some misconceptions about them. Discover the truth behind three teeth whitening myths.
Five smiling people seated against a wall, wearing jeans and casual tops.

3 Hormonal Imbalances That Affect Oral Health

August 18, 2023
Hormonal imbalances can impact your oral wellness. Understand the delicate relationship between your mouth and the hormones your endocrine system produces.
Close-up of a person's smiling mouth, showing bright white teeth, pink gums, and a slightly open mouth.

7 Benefits of Dental Crowns

April 21, 2023
When your teeth have damage, your dentist might recommend dental crowns. Before getting dental crowns, understand the following benefits of these fixtures.
Woman with blonde hair, hand covering her mouth, eyes looking forward.

Why Is Your Breath Smelly?

January 6, 2023
Having bad breath all the time can be a sign of an underlying problem. Understand the possible culprits of bad breath to help you.
Woman with red hair in a bun laughs, sitting against a white wall in a gray tee and jeans.

4 Ways Gum Contouring Enhances Your Smile

September 16, 2022
Gum contouring is a minor oral surgery procedure for adjusting the amount of gum tissue. Discover ways gum contouring enhances your smile.
Woman with dark curly hair laughing, head tilted back, against a white background.

Lumineers Vs. Veneers: Comparing the Key Differences

August 11, 2022
Lumineers and veneers are effective options for people who want that Hollywood smile. Discover the differences between veneers and Lumineers.
Dental panoramic X-ray showing the teeth and jaw bones in shades of white and gray, against a blue background.

What You Should Know About Dental X-Rays

July 15, 2022
Dental radiography helps dentists identify oral issues they can't see through regular visual inspections. Read on to discover more about dental radiography.
Man in dental chair gives thumbs up, smiling, with dentist smiling beside him in a white coat.

6 Tips to Ease Dental Anxiety

June 14, 2022
Many people dread dental appointments. Discover ways to ease your dental anxiety and protect your oral health with these helpful tips.
Close-up of a smiling mouth with bright white teeth and red lipstick.

Need To Whiten Teeth? Reasons To Choose In-office Teeth Whitening

April 12, 2022
Dentists offer customized in-office teeth whitening services. Read on to learn why you should skip DIY methods and choose in-office teeth whitening instead.
Show More