FLUORIDES

Fluoride plays a vital role in pediatric dentistry by significantly reducing the prevalence of dental caries in children through multiple mechanisms including promoting enamel remineralization inhibiting demineralization and reducing oral bacterial activity. It is used both systemically (e.g. water fluoridation dietary supplements) and topically (e.g. fluoride varnishes gels toothpastes) to provide protective benefits during critical periods of tooth development from infancy through adolescence. By combining preventive care individualized fluoride management and education pediatric dentists play a key role in reducing the prevalence and severity of dental fluorosis ensuring pediatric patients receive the preventive benefits of fluoride without the drawbacks of overexposure. Age-appropriate amounts of fluoride toothpaste (a smear for under 3 years pea-sized from 3 to 6 years) are critical to prevent dental fluorosis caused by excessive fluoride ingestion.