For many years, adding fluoride to public water helped protect children's teeth. Recently, some places have stopped adding fluoride, but major dental groups still recommend fluoridated water. Dentists say fluoride replaces minerals that acids and mouth bacteria remove, so enamel stays stronger and less likely to decay.
There are other ways to give children fluoride. Common options are fluoridated toothpaste used in the right amount, fluoride rinses for older children, and topical fluoride varnish applied by the dentist every six months. Parents should supervise brushing and help with flossing because young children often miss back teeth or lack the skill to clean well. Over-the-counter rinses are not for children under six because they may swallow them.
Difficult words
- fluoride — A chemical in water and toothpaste that prevents tooth decay
- enamel — The hard outer layer of a tooth
- bacterium — A tiny living organism that can cause decaybacteria
- varnish — A protective liquid a dentist puts on teeth
- supervise — To watch someone and help them do something
- floss — To clean between teeth with a thin stringflossing
- rinse — A liquid used to wash the mouthrinses
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think public water should have fluoride? Why or why not?
- How would you help a young child brush and floss their teeth?
- Which fluoride option from the article would you choose for a young child? Why?
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