Systemic (taken internally) fluoride use is the most effective method for increasing the resistance of developing adult teeth to dental caries (decay) in children. Decay is the process whereby bacteria in oral plaque consume food particles and then release acid as a waste product which destroys enamel. When fluoride is incorporated into the enamel of a developing adult tooth through the bloodstream and (most importantly) through surface penetration when excreted in the saliva, it makes that enamel harder and less likely to be broken down by these acid producing bacteria. Since the mid 1960s, when fluoridation of community water supplies was introduced as a means of systemic fluoride intake for the general population, decay rates of adult teeth in children from these areas were observed to be up to 60% less than that of children from non-fluoridated cities. Fluoridation of municipal water sources, usually at 1 ppm (part per million), has been the single most successful public health initiative in the history of this country. Besides rare cases of allergy, scientific research has identified no health risks associated with fluoridation. The only known side effect is fluorosis, a pattern of whiter spots appearing on the enamel of individuals who have ingested more than the recommended doses of fluoride.

           Unfortunately, in many regions of the country, the percentage of towns that have fluoridated water supplies is very low. Our seacoast vicinity is such a place. Above are references regarding fluoridated communities in the states of New Hampshire and Maine. If your home is not connected to one of those water systems or if you consume well water, your children are probably not receiving the benefits of fluoridation and the risk for decay in their adult teeth is greatly increased. If your children are not drinking fluoridated water, then they need to take fluoride in the form of sodium fluoride tablets. Adult teeth normally develop between the ages of 6 months (in the front) and 16 years (the wisdom teeth). Interruption of systemic fluoride intake for a prolonged period of time at any point during these ages will increase the decay rate of your children. Ask us about the daily dosages of sodium fluoride tablets needed by children who are not drinking fluoridated water. If you have questions about fluoride and your children, please ask us.

NO TREATMENT IS MORE EFFECTIVE THAN PREVENTION!