Parents of growing children are in a dilemma regarding the necessity of exposing them to extra fluoride. This substance is very important for the proper development of teeth, as innumerable studies have shown over the years. Fluoride is present in certain foods we eat and it is a necessary component of a balanced diet, especially for children since it has a role in strengthening teeth and preventing tooth decay.
Fluoride has been added to the drinking water supply for a very long time now because certain diets do not contain it in sufficient quantities. People, who felt that even this was insufficient, or who lived in areas where there was not enough fluoride in the water, could use fluoride toothpastes to increase their exposure to it.
Like all good things taken to excess, even this has certain problems. Dentists have noted an increase in a certain condition called Fluorosis, where permanent discoloration occurs on the teeth of certain people who have been exposed to extremely high levels of this substance, especially in their young years when their adult teeth were just forming. This discoloration, while not harmful to the health, can severely impair the attractiveness of a smile.
You have every right to be concerned about your child’s teeth because repairing this problem will be an expensive proposition later on in life. Your City of Leeds dentist will be able to advise you regarding the fluoride levels in your drinking water and also about the best brand of toothpaste your growing child needs to use.
Tags: flouride, tooth decay
