Everyday Dental Care with Fluoride

Fluoride Toothpastes

Most toothpastes now contain fluoride, according to the Oral Health Foundation. Fluoride in toothpaste protects teeth by increasing fluoride in saliva, protecting tooth enamel and fighting dental plaque. Look for a product with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on the package.

For the best results, brush with a fluoride toothpaste in the morning and before bedtime. Parents and caregivers should supervise children when brushing and watch how much toothpaste they use. The ADA guidelines for parents and caregivers of very young children are

• Babies and toddlers younger than 3: Start brushing baby teeth as soon as they start to come in. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste or a bead no bigger than a grain of rice.
• Children from 3 to 6 years old: Dispense fluoride toothpaste no bigger than the size of a pea.

Fluoride Mouth Rinses

Mouth rinse, or mouthwash, is helpful in daily oral health habits. Mouth rinses get into spots your toothbrush can’t reach. The ADA recommends that anyone older than 6 can use a fluoride mouth rinse. Children younger than 6 could swallow the rinse and get a stomach ache.

Like the fluoride in toothpaste, the fluoride in mouth rinse is absorbed by dental plaque and saliva to help prevent tooth decay. As you would store any medicine, keep mouth rinses in places where children can’t reach them.