Fluoride for children: how it protects teeth, how often

In short: in a fluoride session, a concentrated fluoride layer (varnish or gel) is applied to the teeth in a few minutes, strengthening the enamel and lowering the chance of decay. It's usually done every three to six months, depending on the child's risk of decay, and it's safe when applied by the dentist in the right amount.

What does fluoride do?

Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acids that bacteria produce from sugars. It also helps reverse early decay before it becomes a cavity.

Who needs fluoride sessions?

• Children, especially from the time their teeth come through.
• Children with a lot of decay or white spots on their teeth.
• Children who have sweets or juice often between meals.
• Children with braces, because cleaning is harder.
• Adults with sensitivity, repeated decay or a dry mouth.

How does a session go?

1. A quick clean of the teeth.
2. Painting fluoride onto the teeth with a small brush (varnish) — seconds per tooth, with no pain.
3. A few simple instructions.

The whole session takes minutes and suits children well: no pain, no needles, no noisy instruments.

After the session

• No hard or hot food for several hours; soft food is best.
• No brushing until the next morning (follow your dentist's instructions), so the fluoride stays on the teeth longer.
• The teeth may look slightly yellow from the varnish; this goes with the first brushing.

Fluoride at home

• Fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
• Amount: a smear the size of a grain of rice under age 3, and a pea-sized amount from 3 to 6.
• Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste, not swallow it, and not to rinse with lots of water afterwards.
• Children under 8 need an adult to help them brush.

Fluoride protects, but it doesn't replace cutting down on sugar, regular brushing and check-ups.

Is fluoride safe?

Yes; the amount applied in the clinic is small and measured. At home, the important thing is that children don't swallow much toothpaste — which is why the small amount on the brush matters.

Book a fluoride session and check-up for your child at our 6th of October branch or El Saff branch. For adults, read about scaling and polishing.