Topical Fluoride Necessary for Kids?

By applying topical fluoride to teeth cannot completely prevent cavities, so what's the point in the treatment? Many parents question what’s the point in fluoride treatment?

For first time parents there is always the urge to ask "experienced parents" for advice, however it’s always best to seek the advice of professionals. There has been a heated discussion between parents about whether it’s beneficial for kids having topical fluoride treatment as it does not completely prevent cavities. There’s also parents who say that children lose their milk teeth at the age of 6 so there’s no need for topical fluoride treatment.


However, scientifically speaking applying topical fluoride to the surface of teeth is like a protective cover. This can strengthen the mineral content of the enamel which makes it a preventive method for cavities.


Benefits of Fluoride Treatment for Children


1. There’s a difference between applying topical fluoride as it can prevent cavities and provides children with a protective layer over their teeth.


2. Are the results of topical fluoride treatment worth it? Firstly the topical fluoride treatment should be applied by a professional dentist and experienced dental clinic. Also parents must understand that after applying fluoride children must also continue to have good dental hygiene just because topical fluoride has been applied this is no excuse for not brushing.


3. Applying topical fluoride usually takes only a few minutes and can come in the form of gel, foam or varnish and it’s non-invasive.


4. Althought children loose their milk teeth around the age of 6, for all milk teeth to be completely lost will be when the child is about 12 years old so as a preventive measure until all the permanent teeth come in it is rather beneficial to have topical fluoride treatment.