Dr Amanda Wong of SMILEFOCUS explains how fluoride promotes good dental health. 

 
Dentists are often asked about the benefits of fluoride – a natural mineral found in many foods and all drinking water, which is safe and effective when ingested appropriately. Research shows fluoride plays a protective role against tooth decay. And because it helps to form tooth structures, fluoride is particularly beneficial for children.
         
          This is especially good news for parents, as children’s teeth are susceptible to decay as the enamel of their teeth is softer and thinner, compared to that of an adult. When sugar or food acids come into contact with young teeth too often, or for too long, damage can result. The softness of baby teeth also means decay can spread rapidly – sometimes in a matter of months – moving into the central pulp or nerve area of the tooth more easily and faster than in adult teeth. While a protective dental sealant can protect against decay-causing bacteria, it’s important to be vigilant.

          Topical fluorides are found in toothpastes, mouth rinses and professionally-applied fluoride strengthen teeth making them more resistant to decay. Fluoride applied by your dentist is stronger and will last longer. Effective dental decay prevention requires a proper mix of both topical and ingested fluoride. But too much ingested fluoride in young children during tooth development can cause white spots or staining of the tooth’s enamel – so don’t let your child eat toothpaste!

          The majority of bottled waters don’t contain optimal levels of fluoride. And while we’re fortunate Singapore has some of the best drinking water in the world, certain types of home water treatment systems can reduce the fluoride content in the water supply.

          An alternative to fluoride is Tooth Mousse. While it may not be a fluoride, it does share similar benefits. Tooth Mousse is a topical agent which contains the protein casein-phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), which protects teeth from decay by binding onto tooth and gum surfaces, increasing the bio-availability of calcium phosphate and neutralising acidic saliva. CPP-ACP is a recognised food additive and is safe to use – unless you’re allergic to milk proteins. Tooth Mousse is only available from your dentist, is sugar and fluoride-free and available in a variety of tasty flavours.  

          Seek advice from your dentist about your family’s specific fluoride needs and educate your child from a young age about healthy eating and drinking habits. Explain how a good diet is linked to good oral health and the positive steps your child can take, to encourage a long-term healthy approach to dental hygiene.

Dr Amanda Wong B.D.S. (Adelaide)
Dr Amanda Wong is a general dentist who is particularly gifted in treating children. New to smilefocus, Dr Wong is known to be a very patient dentist with a good sense of humour.