What Is The Right Age For Fluoride Treatments?

At What Age Should Children Get Fluoride Treatments?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that children should start receiving fluoride treatments as soon as their first teeth appear. This usually happens around the age of 6 or 7 months. This simple procedure is also beneficial for children over the age of 6 years, as it helps strengthen and protect their permanent teeth.

Based on your child’s oral health, your dentist will decide how often they should get this treatment to prevent the risk of cavities. Generally, scheduled treatments (every 3 months) are recommended for children who are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, drink non-fluoridated water, or are undergoing braces treatment.

What Happens During A Fluoride Treatment?

Firstly, the dentist will carefully examine your child’s teeth to notice any signs of decay. Some children feel uneasy or restless during dental visits. But you can rest easy knowing that this process is completely painless and only takes a few minutes. Many pediatric dentists also offer fluoride varnishes of gels in different flavors to make the experience more enjoyable for kids.

During the procedure, the dentist will apply a fluoride solution to your child’s teeth and leave it for a few minutes. The solution hardens quickly, so your child will not be able to lick it off.

After the procedure, your child can eat soft foods or warm drinks. However, avoid brushing or flossing their teeth for at least 6 hours, allowing their teeth to absorb fluoride into the enamel.