Fluoride helps to prevent dental decay and strengthen your child’s teeth.  To learn more about fluoride treatments in Cary, North Carolina, and make your child’s appointment with Dr. Stephen Coker, please call Parkway Dental at 919-380-9622.

Fluoride can be provided in two ways, topically and systemically.  Topical treatments are provided directly to the surfaces of the teeth by our dentist.  Systemic fluoride treatments are delivered via the bloodstream, as a result of fluoride derived from food, water, or dietary supplements.

Fluoride Safety
Fluoride is very effective in controlling dental decay when used properly. If not used in the proper doses, fluoride toxicity and dental fluorosis can occur.

Fluoride toxicity occurs when large amounts of fluoride are ingested over a short period of time. This can be dangerous to your health. Symptoms of fluoride toxicity may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, increased salivation, or increased thirst. These symptoms generally begin 30 minutes after ingestion and can last up to 24 hours.

Depending on the amount of the toxic overdose of fluoride, certain emergency procedures should be implemented. If you feel nausea, drink milk or try to induce vomiting and call us or physician. If these symptoms do not subside, or the conditions worsen (difficulty breathing), call an 911, Poison Help Line 800-222-1222 or visit your nearest Hospital or Urgent Care.

Dental fluorosis is an excess of fluoride intake during the stages of tooth development. Dental fluorosis ranges from mild (white specks on teeth) to severe (brown staining and pitting of enamel).

To ensure your child does not experience any adverse effects from fluoride, follow these basic rules:

• Do not swallow any fluoridated products.
• Use only a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a small pea, to brush your child’s teeth.
• Fluoridated products, especially mouth rinses should not be given to a child under 6 years of age, or to anyone who cannot rinse and spit (those you suspect are swallowing some of the product).
• Keep fluoridated products out of reach of children.

Parental supervision is needed for children when brushing or using any fluoridated substances.