FLUORIDE A POWERFUL TOOL IN THE FIGHT AGAINST TOOTH DECAY

Dr. Karen Ho provides quality dental care to families from the Hamilton area with the goal of preventing dental problems like cavities and gum disease. Children, in particular, are at risk for the development of cavities. Although the water supply in many U.S. cities contains fluoride, many children benefit from the professional application of this protective substance. Topical fluoride is a great complement to home care and other preventative dental care.

Children may need all the help they can get in the area of cavity prevention. The mouth naturally houses hundreds of types of bacteria. Depending on the level of daily oral care, dietary habits, and other factors, some children may be especially at risk for tooth decay. Dr. Ho takes these factors into consideration, as well as the age of the child, when planning preventative care that includes fluoride application, tablets, or oral rinse.

WHY FLUORIDE

A vital factor in healthy tooth structure and functionality is sufficient mineral content in tooth enamel. Chewing alone, however, depletes minerals from teeth. Additional loss occurs because of the types of foods and beverages a child consumes. The mineral that has been identified through research as strengthening to tooth enamel is fluoride. The reason fluoride is especially important during the early years is that teeth are still developing and in greater need of protection. The goal in providing fluoride is to give enough, but not too much.

While fluoride may be present in some cities’ water supply, many children do not routinely drink tap water. The amount of fluoride found in tap water has been found low enough for safe consumption. The concern with too much fluoride consumption is fluorosis, which may lead to the formation of white spots on teeth. For this reason, toothpastes for young children are fluoride-free. The topical application of fluoride does not pose this same risk and may be one of the best ways to keep teeth strong and healthy.

Treating teeth with fluoride today leads to a healthier smile in the future. Call Dentistry on Parkdale to learn more about fluoride and our other preventative treatments for children. 905-547-4940.

Dr. Karen Ho, Dentistry on Parkdale

Dr. Karen Ho is a trusted dentist serving patients of all ages in Hamilton, Ontario. Having studied at prestigious institutes such as McMaster University and University of Toronto and trained at Hartford Hospital (General Practice Residency), she opened her private practice in 2003.

Dr. Ho is committed to lifelong learning as she believes that she can serve her community better by constantly updating herself. She is affiliated with many professional organisations like the Academy of General Dentistry, Institute for Clinical Practice of Pediatric Dentistry, The Dawson Academy Study Club, Niagara Peninsula Dental Diagnostic Study Club, Hamilton Chapter of the Seattle Study Club (Founding Member), and Boston and Tufts Universities.

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