Ask Your Child’s Dentist About Water Fluoridation – Pediatric Dentistry FAQ

A pediatric dentist may have some helpful answers about water fluoridation, which is a common concern for parents and their children. Fluoride is a chemical element that is necessary for good overall dental and oral health. It is important to prevent tooth decay, but too much of it can actually be harmful. Talking with a pediatric dentist about water fluoridation is important as they can advise on the specifics of fluoride in water. Pediatric dentistry, just like all fields of dentistry, involve keeping a patient’s teeth healthy. Through water fluoridation, this can be achieved.

What a pediatric dentist has to say about water fluoridation

There are a lot of misconceptions about water fluoridation, but it is first important to understand what it actually is. This term refers to the controlled adjustment of fluoride to public drinking water. The goal of water fluoridation is to reduce and prevent tooth decay. The levels of fluoride in the water should not to be too high or too low. Too much of it could cause harm to the body. On the other hand, not enough fluoride could allow for tooth decay to occur.

It is necessary!

Pediatric dentistry focuses on the treatment of children’s teeth and a lot of dentists often see children with tooth decay. Because tooth decay is so common, it is necessary for water fluoridation to take place to help prevent it. The fluoride in the water protects the enamel of the teeth from acids that could turn into bacteria, thus resulting in decay. And, because a lot of children do not practice the proper oral hygiene, it is important for them to have some sort of fluoride intake which can be achieved through water fluoridation.

It is not harmful

A lot of parents wonder whether or not water fluoridation is harmful for their children to consume and the answer is no. Pediatric dentists explain that water containing fluoride is harmless for the teeth and the child’s overall health. The CDC, ADA and AAP all agree that water fluoridation is healthy and ready for consumption.

Do some research

People should not assume that the city's water contains fluoride. It is important to do some research because if the public water supply does not contain fluoride, parents will want to turn to other sources to ensure that their children are receiving the necessary amount of fluoride. Often times, a pediatric dentist may recommend a fluoride-based toothpaste or mouth rinse.

Contact your pediatric dentist today

Water fluoridation is surprisingly necessary and important in the prevention of tooth decay. All children need to receive an amount of fluoride. If you have questions about water fluoridation, then reach out to your pediatric dentist’s office today so that you can schedule a consultation. Your pediatric dentist can further explain the importance of water fluoridation for children. Give your pediatric dentist a call or stop by the office today!

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesinpa.com or call Jenny Chen Pediatric and Family Dentistry at (610) 400-1588 for an appointment in our West Grove office.

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