Does My Daughter Need Fluoride Treatment?

I am unsure about letting my six-yr-old daughter get fluoride treatments from her pediatric dentist. I am slow to introduce chemicals into my children’s bodies. I don’t even use fluoride toothpaste for her yet. She is young, and I am concerned she might swallow the toothpaste. I know I can refuse the treatment if the dentist recommends it again, but is fluoride treatment necessary or just recommended? Thank you. Karmen

 

Karmen,

Thank you for contacting Radiant Smiles of Rocky Hill about fluoride treatment for children. You can decline any services you do not want your daughter to receive.

Is Fluoride for Kids Treatment Necessary?

Pediatric dentists routinely and safely provide fluoride treatments to help preserve primary teeth. Depending on the condition of a child’s teeth, a dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry confirms that fluoride treatment is a safe and effective way to minimize tooth decay risks.

The treatment helps in the following ways:

• Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel.
• Cavity prevention in primary teeth is essential to preserve the teeth.
• Healthy primary teeth can help guide permanent teeth into the correct position.

How Does a Dentist Give a Child Fluoride?

Family or pediatric dentists may offer fluoride treatment in these forms:

• Foam
• Gel
• Varnish

Using varnish or foam reduces the risk of swallowing the fluoride. If you have concerns about your daughter swallowing fluoride, you can ask how the dentist administers fluoride treatments. The dentist will recommend that your daughter does not eat or drink anything for at least 1.5 hours after the fluoride treatment. Also, wait four to six hours before brushing her teeth.

If you are still uncomfortable, you can ask the dentist to refrain from using the fluoride treatments until you agree that your daughter is ready for them. You can also get a second opinion on whether fluoride treatment will benefit your daughter.

Rocky Hill, Connecticut, cosmetic dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski sponsors this post.

7 Months Pregnant. Is It Safe to See a Dentist for a Toothache?

I am 7 months pregnant. I have a cap on a right molar tooth that cracked three years ago. The tooth has hurt on and off for two months. The pain is getting worse, and it’s stressing me a little bit because I’ve been planning to work up to the delivery, and it’s hard for me to get time off work to go to the dentist. I am not sure that it is even safe to see a dentist. Or should I let it go until after the delivery? Thanks. Gia

Gia – Thank you for contacting Radiant Smiles of Rocky Hill.

Can You See a Dentist If You’re Seven Months Pregnant?

If you have a persistent toothache or trauma, see a dentist even if you are seven months pregnant. Your tooth is probably infected. A dentist must treat the infection, so it doesn’t worsen. It is even possible for a tooth infection to spread to other teeth, your jawbone, and in the worst case, into your bloodstream. Don’t put your baby at risk. See a dentist who accepts emergency cases as soon as possible. If the tooth dies, it will require removal and a dental implant—more costly and time-consuming treatment.

What Are the Guidelines for Dental Care During Pregnancy?

The guidelines for dental care during pregnancy are based on your trimester.

Before the third trimester

Before the third trimester, even regularly scheduled check-ups and exams are essential to prevent periodontal (gum) disease and for early detection and treatment of any oral health issues. Routine x-rays during these exams can usually be delayed until after the baby is born.

During the third trimester

During the third trimester of pregnancy, delay preventive dental care. Also, you can wait for electives and cosmetic dentistry until after the birth of your baby.

Although you should avoid routine x-rays during pregnancy, if an x-ray is required, the American College of Radiology reports that a single x-ray will not adversely affect an embryo or unborn fetus. Speak with your obstetrician and let them know you have a dental emergency. Be sure to let your dentist know your medical history and provide a list of all medications you currently take.

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologist, sponsors this post.