Fluoride

Fluoride

Fluoride is a safe and effective way to prevent holes and other damages in your teeth. Fluoride makes the enamel of your teeth harder and so helps to protect against, for example, acid attacks. And also, small damage can be repaired by brushing well with fluoride toothpaste and by using fluoride (applied by the dentist). Fluoride is found in toothpastes, special rinse fluids and in the gels, used by the dentist.

Using fluoride

Most toothpastes have fluoride in them. The best thing is to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, so that the fluoride is absorbed by the tooth, making the teeth stronger against acids. As an extra, the dentist or dental hygienist can also advise you to clean with a fluoride mouthwash. It is also possible for the dental care provider to give a fluoride application in the dental practice.

Is fluoride dangerous?

No, fluoride in oral care products is perfectly safe. However, with children you should pay good attention to how much you use. That is why it is important for your child to use special children’s toothpaste fluoride content that is good for their age.

Guideline for the use of fluoride

From the moment the first teeth break through you can start brushing the teeth with a fluoride toothpaste. Brushing once a day is enough until the second year. From the second year, the teeth should be brushed twice a day. There is a special pasta for babies and children up to the age of five. Follow the instructions below:

• 0 to 2 years: brush once a day with toothpaste for babies and small children.
• 2 to 5 years: brush twice a day with toothpaste for babies and small children.
• from 5 years: brush twice a day with toothpaste for adults.

There are also toothpastes that have fluoride in them. They should only be used after the advice of a dentist.

For both children and adults, a ball of toothpaste (the size of a pea) on the toothbrush is enough.