"Fluoride – Friend or Foe of Children's Teeth?" – Family Dentist Schwyz

About the job

"Fluoride – Friend or Foe of Children's Teeth?"

Hardly any topic causes as much uncertainty among parents as fluoride in toothpaste. Is it really necessary? Can it be harmful? And which toothpaste is the right one for my child?

The good news upfront: Fluoride is one of the most effective agents to protect children's teeth from decay.

Why is fluoride so important?

Every day, teeth are attacked by acids. These mainly arise when bacteria process sugar from food.

Fluoride supports the natural repair of tooth enamel, makes teeth more resistant, and helps prevent decay. Thanks to fluoride-containing toothpastes, tooth decay in children is significantly less common today than a few decades ago.

Is fluoride dangerous?

Many concerns arise from confusing fluoride with fluorine. While fluorine as a gas is indeed toxic, fluoride is a compound that is safe and well researched in the correct dosage.

The amount of fluoride contained in children's toothpastes is specially tailored for children and has been successfully used for many years.

Which toothpaste do we recommend?

For children, we recommend an age-appropriate children's toothpaste with fluoride. Brushing should begin twice daily from the first milk tooth.

The rule is: less is more. A small, pea-sized amount of toothpaste is completely sufficient.

What if my child swallows toothpaste?

Especially with younger children, this cannot always be avoided. This is usually not a problem. However, it is important that swallowing does not become a habit and that the toothbrush is not overloaded with toothpaste.

Our advice for parents

Do not let contradictory information on the internet unsettle you. Scientific findings clearly show: Fluoride is an important building block for healthy children's teeth.

We are happy to advise you personally on which toothpaste is suitable for your child and what you should pay attention to in daily dental care.

🦷 Our heartfelt concern: Every child should grow up with healthy and strong teeth. Together we create the best conditions for a lifelong healthy smile.

Of course, this applies not only to children's teeth. For us adults as well, a fluoride-containing toothpaste is very important for daily dental and oral health.

Miriam and Dr Stephan Landolt-Kistler, Family Dental Practice Schwyz AG