Fluoride Varnish: Does my kid needs it?
June 21, 2016by: Lizaida Medina Candelaria, MD FAAP
Keeping your child’s teeth healthy requires more than just brushing every day. Fluoride, a substance found naturally in water, plays a very important role in healthy tooth development and prevention of cavities.
If fluoride is found naturally in water, does my child still needs the varnish?
Yes. According to the Florida Department of Health, Palm Beach Gardens’ and other cities in Palm Beach County community water system does not receive optimally fluorinated water.
How does fluoride protect teeth?
When a person eats sugars, bacteria produce acids that attack the enamel of the tooth by removing minerals that keep teeth healthy. Fluoride helps make the teeth more resistant to decay by adhering to the enamel and acting like a barrier against plaque.
Is it safe?
Yes. It is used by doctors and dentists all over the world to prevent tooth decay. Only a small amount is used and hardly any is swallowed.
What is the recommended schedule?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children ages 5 and under should receive a professional fluoride treatment at least every 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth. Fluoride Varnish is covered by most insurances. Contact you Pediatrician for more information.
Lizaida Medina Candelaria, MD FAAP
Dr. Medina is a Board Certified Pediatrician and an active member of the AAP and Palm Beach Pediatric Society.
Her office, at SuperKids Pediatrics is located in Palm Beach Gardens.
Phone: 561-619-2460 / info@skpediatrics / www.skpediatrics.com / www.facebook.com /
9121 North Military Trail Ste 102, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
