Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in a variety of foods and water, and is an essential element for dental health. Fluoride plays a vital role in preventing tooth decay and strengthening tooth enamel. In this article, through the Dalili Medical website, we will review the benefits of fluoride and its effect on teeth and the body, in addition to foods rich in it and ways to use it safely.

**Can a child eat or drink 30 minutes after a fluoride session?**

 

Yes, a child is allowed to eat or drink 30 minutes after a fluoride session. However, it is preferable to avoid acidic or carbonated drinks, as they can negatively affect the fluoride layer that forms on the enamel.

**What are the symptoms of fluoride allergy?**

 

Symptoms of fluoride allergy are rare, but may include a rash, itching, or swelling of the face or lips. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to contact your dentist immediately.

**Are there any risks to swallowing a small amount of fluoride after a session?**

 

In general, there are no significant risks to swallowing a small amount of fluoride after fluoride sessions for children. However, if a child swallows a large amount, he or she may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. In this case, a doctor or poison control center should be contacted.

. When can a child brush his or her teeth after a fluoride session?

 

It is preferable not to brush a child’s teeth for at least 24 hours after fluoride sessions, as fluoride is most effective when left on the teeth for a longer period. Brushing teeth immediately after a session may remove the fluoride layer that forms on the enamel, reducing the level of protection it provides.

. What type of toothpaste is appropriate to use after a fluoride session?

 

It is recommended to use a fluoride-free toothpaste after fluoride sessions for children. This is because the fluoride in the toothpaste may interact with the fluoride applied during the session, reducing its effectiveness.

. Do fluoride sessions affect the health of adults?

 

Fluoride sessions for children do not affect the health of adults. Fluoride is only used on children's teeth, and has no effect on the health of adults even if they are in the same room.

**Can fluoride sessions be performed for children at home?**

 

It is not preferable to perform fluoride sessions for children at home. It is essential that these sessions are performed under the supervision of a dentist or qualified dental hygienist, to ensure that fluoride is applied correctly and safely.

**Where can fluoride be found?**

 

- Fluoride is found in fluoridated drinking water.

- In children's toothpaste and mouthwash.

- It is also found in some foods such as potatoes, beans, and red tea.

**How ​​often should fluoride be applied?**

 

Fluoride should be reapplied based on the patient's caries status every 4-6 months.

**Should fluoride be applied?**

 

The need for fluoride application is determined based on the patient's age, caries status, and diet, i.e. according to the level of risk of caries.

**Are there any harms to applying fluoride?**

 

Applying fluoride under medical supervision and under appropriate conditions does not cause any harm. The World Health Organization (WHO), the European Association of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD), and the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) have confirmed the safety of using fluoride.

**What are the benefits of dental fluoride?**

 

It is normal for teeth to lose some minerals over time. Fluoride accelerates the remineralization process, which helps reduce the chances of caries and strengthen the enamel layer.

Fluoride provides protection for teeth in several ways, including:

**Remineralization:** Fluoride helps replenish calcium and phosphorus ions, which enhances their absorption by the teeth, thus contributing to the repair of weak tooth enamel and damaged areas.

Fluoride treatment can help prevent tooth decay and slow the growth of bacteria, which leads to:

- Preventing gum disease.

- Reducing toothache.

- Preventing premature tooth loss.

Fluoride treatments can improve oral health, which according to the World Health Organization (WHO) is a key indicator of overall health. Poor oral health can lead to a range of other health problems, including cardiovascular disease.

What is the importance of in-clinic fluoride sessions?

 

Fluoride sessions are of great importance for dental health and preventing tooth decay, as they have many benefits, the most prominent of which are:

These sessions contribute to strengthening tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acidic effects that may affect it, which leads to improving its health and reducing the risk of tooth decay.

In addition, fluoride sessions provide protection for teeth from stains and yellowing resulting from eating certain foods, soft drinks, coffee, and smoking.

Therefore, getting fluoride sessions in the clinic is essential to maintaining dental health and making them more attractive and shiny. Doctors recommend that children receive fluoride sessions from an early age to strengthen their teeth and protect them from decay.

When is it necessary to use fluoride for teeth?

 

There are several reasons that may prompt a dentist to recommend fluoride sessions, the most prominent of which are:

**Recurrent caries** If you are at risk of caries or have active caries in the mouth, fluoride works to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the effect of acids on it, which helps reduce the chances of caries.

**Dry mouth cases** If you suffer from dry mouth due to taking certain medications or as a result of a certain disease, this increases the likelihood of developing caries. Saliva plays an important role in reducing the effect of acids produced by bacteria and helps remove food debris from the mouth. Therefore, a lack of saliva increases the risk of developing caries.

Radiation therapy to the neck or head can also causeIn damage to the salivary glands, which leads to dry mouth.

**Weak tooth enamel** When tooth enamel is weak, teeth are more likely to decay. Fluoride treatment can help strengthen tooth enamel and protect it from decay.

**Gum recession** Gum recession is a condition that occurs when the gums recede from the teeth, exposing the roots that are thinner than the hard enamel layer on top of the tooth. This recession provides a suitable environment for the growth of bacteria, which speeds up the process of tooth decay.

**Fitting crowns, bridges, or braces** When using braces, brackets and other orthodontic devices can trap large amounts of bacteria, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Fluoride also provides additional support for bridges and crowns.

**Recurrent tooth sensitivity** Fluoride can also help treat the problem of increased tooth sensitivity. It helps remineralize tooth enamel and reduces sensitivity.

Your doctor may recommend using dental fluoride in the following cases:

- Having a diet high in sugar or acidic foods.

- Not paying attention to dental care.

- Gum disease.

- Diabetics.

The most important steps for post-fluoride care for children:

Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after the session: It is preferable to refrain from eating or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes after fluoride sessions for children. This is because fluoride needs enough time to interact with tooth enamel and form an effective protective layer. Eating or drinking immediately after the session may disrupt the work of fluoride and reduce its effectiveness.

Avoid brushing teeth for 24 hours after the session: It is preferable not to brush the child's teeth for at least 24 hours after fluoride sessions. This is because fluoride is more effective when left on the teeth for a longer period. Brushing teeth immediately after the session may remove the fluoride layer that forms on the enamel, which reduces its effectiveness in protecting the teeth.

Use a fluoride-free toothpaste: It is preferable to use a fluoride-free toothpaste after fluoride sessions for children. This is because the fluoride in the toothpaste may interact with the fluoride that was applied to the teeth during the session, which may reduce its effectiveness.

Valuable tips for dental care after fluoride sessions for children:

1. **Explaining the importance of dental care**: It is necessary to explain the importance of dental care to the child in a simple and easy-to-understand way. Stories or games can be used to make the topic more attractive to the child.

2. **Encouraging the child to brush his teeth regularly**: The child should be encouraged to brush his teeth twice a day, morning and evening.

3. **Choosing an appropriate toothbrush**: It is important to choose a toothbrush that suits the child's age and mouth size.

4. **Teaching the correct technique for brushing teeth**: The child should be taught the correct way to brush the teeth, emphasizing the need to clean all surfaces, including the back sides.

5. **Using dental floss**: It is preferable to use dental floss once a day to reach areas that the brush cannot clean.

6. **Visiting the dentist regularly**: It is important to take the child to visit the dentist periodically to examine and clean his teeth professionally.

**Side Effects of Dental Fluoride Treatment**

Some natural health professionals have expressed concerns about high doses of fluoride, stating that fluoride may not be safe for children, and that fluoridated water can be dangerous, leading to problems such as:

One of the most common side effects of fluoride is tooth discoloration.

Fluorosis is a condition that causes white streaks or other advanced discoloration to appear on teeth. This poisoning occurs when a child ingests large amounts of fluoride while baby and permanent teeth are developing under the gums. A child can be exposed to excess fluoride from birth to age 8.

The U.S. Public Health Service has set guidelines for the amount of fluoride allowed in community drinking water, with the goal of helping to prevent tooth decay and reduce the risk of fluorosis. The current recommended level is 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that parents and caregivers use a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste as soon as a child’s first teeth appear. This helps protect a child’s teeth from decay.

**Tooth sensitivity or irritation:** Some people may experience allergic reactions to fluoride or skin irritation, although these are rare.

**Toxic effects:** Fluoride can be toxic if used incorrectly or in very high doses, but these are rare.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends professional fluoride varnish for children under 6 years of age. Fluoride varnish is best for young children, as they may be prone to swallowing the foam or gel, which can cause nausea and vomiting.

**Fluoride alternatives**

For those who prefer to avoid fluoride in toothpaste, there are a number of fluoride-free options on the market. These alternatives often contain natural ingredients that have been shown to promote oral health.

**Neem:** Neem is a natural ingredient extracted from the neem tree, and has been used in traditional oral care. It has antibacterial properties, which help fight oral bacteria and reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Neem also has soothing properties that may help relieve gingivitis.

**Tea Tree Oil:** Tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth and reduce gingivitis. It is often usedTea tree oil is used in toothpastes and mouthwashes to promote oral health and freshen breath.

**Coconut oil:** Coconut oil has become popular in oral care as part of the oil pulling technique, which involves holding the oil in the mouth for a few minutes to remove bacteria and promote oral hygiene. Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that may help reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

**Aloe vera:** Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties, and can be beneficial for oral health by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy gums. Some toothpastes and mouthwashes contain aloe vera to provide a soothing effect and support oral hygiene.

Clove oil has been used in oral care for centuries for its natural pain-relieving and antimicrobial properties. It can help relieve toothaches, and studies have shown it to be effective against oral pathogens.

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, has antimicrobial properties, helping to protect against oral pathogens. Propolis is commonly used in this context.