Healthy Teeth
Fluoride, Checkups and Healthy Eating
For a Lifetime of Good Dental Health
Fluoride
- A mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel — and repair damaged enamel. • Helps enhance tooth strength with the body’s own minerals, such as calcium. • Protects teeth from acid attack. • Inhibits bacteria in plaque from producing acid.
- Children can get fluoride through: – Water
- Fluoride supplements (usually tablets) – Professional fluoride treatments – Fluoride gels, rinses, toothpastes
Dental Checkups
Ideally, children should visit a dentist
- Within 6 months of the eruption of their first baby tooth.
- Then twice a year or as recommended by the child’s dentist.
At a checkup, the dentist and/or dental hygienist will:
- Examine the child’s mouth for early signs of decay or other problems.
- Monitor tooth growth.
- Clean the teeth.
- If necessary, strengthen the teeth with a fluoride treatment.
- Dentists sometimes recommend sealants — clear plastic coatings over the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where decay most often occurs. Sealants shield uneven surfaces from food and plaque.
Healthy Eating
Snacks – Sugars and starches can contribute to tooth decay.
- Limit the number of snacks you eat.
- Choose nutritious snacks such as raw vegetables, fruits and low-fat cheese.
- Limit sugary sodas and sports drinks. Note: Snacking or sipping on sugary food or drink over extended periods of time throughout the day can be especially harmful.