Fluoride & Your Child

Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, is essential for proper tooth development and the prevention of tooth decay. Tooth decay is still a significant problem — but it is far less prevalent than it would have been, if not for the fluoridation of public water supplies. That’s why the major associations of pediatric dentists and doctors support water fluoridation to the current recommended levels of 0.70 parts per million (ppm). It’s also why the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has called fluoridated water one of the most significant health achievements of the 20th century.

Of course, not everyone has access to fluoridated water. That’s one reason why we sometimes recommend a fluoride supplement for your child and/or the use of toothpastes and other products that contain this important mineral. Because it is possible for children to get too much fluoride, it is best to consult with us on the use of any fluoride-containing product. 

How Fluoride Helps

The protective outer layer of teeth, called enamel, is often subject to attacks from acids.  These can come directly from acidic foods and beverages, such as sodas and citrus fruits – or sometimes through a middleman. These bacteria congregate in dental plaque and feed on sugar that is not cleansed from your child’s mouth. In metabolizing (breaking down) sugar, the bacteria produce acids that can eat through tooth enamel. This is how cavities are formed. When fluoride is present, it becomes part of the crystalline structure of tooth enamel, hardening it and making it more resistant to acid attack. Fluoride can even help repair small cavities that are already forming.

Delivering Fluoride to Teeth

Fluoride ingested by children in drinking water or supplements can be taken up by their developing permanent teeth. Once a tooth has erupted, it can be strengthened by fluoride topically (on the surface). Using a fluoride-containing toothpaste is one way to make sure your children’s teeth receive helpful fluoride exposure daily.

We recommend using only just a tiny smear for kids under 3, and a pea-sized amount for children ages 3-6.

A very beneficial way to deliver fluoride to the teeth at the dental office is with topical fluoride applications painted right onto your child’s teeth and allowed to sit for a few minutes for maximum effectiveness. 

How Much Is Too Much?

Teeth that are over-exposed to fluoride as they are forming beneath the gum line can develop a condition called enamel fluorosis, which is characterized by a streaked or mottled appearance. Mild fluorosis takes the form of white spots that are hard to see. In more severe cases (which are rare), the discoloration can be darker, with a pitted texture. The condition is not harmful, but may eventually require cosmetic dental treatment. Tooth decay, on the other hand, is harmful to your child’s health and can also be quite painful in severe cases.

The risk for fluorosis ends by the time a child is about 9 and all the permanent teeth have fully formed. Until then, we would be happy to discuss with you how much fluoride your child needs and in what form. Since fluoride use is cumulative, we need to take into account all the sources your child comes in contact with — including powdered infant formula mixed with fluoridated tap water — along with sugar consumption and other risk factors for decay, to make the appropriate recommendation. But while caution is advised, it would be a mistake to forgo the benefits that this important mineral can bring to your child’s teeth — and his or her overall health. 

What Our Happy Parents Say

Haley A.
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The whole staff was very welcoming and made our first experience with a toddler very calming and fun! Thank you!!!
Alyse A.
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Dr. Hull is a meticulous orthodontist who ensures that the patient and parent understands what is happening and why. He ensures the alignment of your teeth are exactly as they should be. 100% recommend him to anyone!
Kailie J.
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Highly recommend bringing your smaller children here! They always make my daughter (currently 3 1/2 years old) feel so comfortable, and she leaves there so happy every time!

Meet Your Pediatric Dentist in Des Moines, Iowa

Our staff is trained and skilled with many years of experience in dealing with the pediatric patient. We strive to provide energetic and fun-loving service to each patient. All of our staff members stay current with the very latest in technology and advances by regularly attending continuing education courses and seminars.

hull2
Nathan Hull, DDS
Orthodontist
Jim Shealy, DDS
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Danielle_Bryan_revised_
Danielle Leonard, DDS
General Dentist
Matthew-Kubovich,-DDS
Matthew Kubovich, DDS
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Our office is moving! Welcome to Children’s Dental Center of Central Iowa and Family Orthodontics!

Dear patients and families,

The Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Central Iowa team will be moving to a new office and operating under the name of our partner practices, Children’s Dental Center of Central Iowa and Family Orthodontics! You’ll experience the same great care with our team at our new home in Urbandale, conveniently located just down the road from our current office! 

Our New Address

Phone

We can’t wait to show you around our new home! If you have any questions, please call our new office at:

Our Office

Please feel free to contact our office during the following hours through our office phone number or at any time using the contact form. We look forward to hearing from you! 

Address

Phone

Working Hours

Monday

8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Tuesday

8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Wednesday

8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Thursday

8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Friday

Closed

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

Our office is moving! Welcome to Children’s Dental Center of Central Iowa and Family Orthodontics!

Dear patients and families,

The Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Central Iowa team will be moving to a new office and operating under the name of our partner practices, Children’s Dental Center of Central Iowa and Family Orthodontics! You’ll experience the same great care with our team at our new home in Urbandale, conveniently located just down the road from our current office! 

Our New Address

Phone

We can’t wait to show you around our new home! If you have any questions, please call our new office at: