Fluoride Toothpaste

At Kidz Connextion Dental Care in Phoenix, we want our patients to understand how to protect their oral health. Brushing their teeth is often one of the first self-care skills children learn, and when properly done, it can prevent a lot of health and comfort issues throughout life. Using fluoridated toothpaste properly is a major component of that.

Fluoride boosts teeth’s protection from the acids bacteria secrete as they eat food residue. During a standard tooth-brushing session of two minutes, children should be sure to brush all over every tooth surface. They should do this using a soft-bristled brush that will not cause irritation to the gums since they will begin brushing at the gum line and work their way to the tip of each crown. (They should also brush their tongues to prevent bad breath.)

Fluoride is commonly supplied through the water and people who drink it have significantly better dental health. However, people who consume too much fluoride are at risk for tooth discoloration, which is why toothpaste should be spat out. For this reason and to ensure they brush thoroughly, we recommend that children not be left to brush alone until they are about seven. They also should not use fluoride toothpaste on retainers or other oral appliances, as this may scratch them.

Kidz Connextion Dental Care maintains offices around Phoenix. To find out more, visit our website at Kidz Connextion.