Fluoride

Fluoride is a micronutrient found in all water supplies. Community fluoridation is the best way to prevent dental disease in children and adults.  Fluoride reduces decay between teeth between 35%-60 %. Do not give fluoride supplements with any calcium products, since this can reduce the amount of fluoride absorbed by the body. When communities are not fluoridated, supplemental fluoride should be given to children.
Dosages:

• Birth to age six months: Do not give fluoride supplements
• Age 6months to age three: 0.25 mgs of fluoride
• Age 3 to age 6: 0.5 mgs of fluoride
• Age 6 and above: 1.0mg of fluoride

During preventive maintenance visits children receive topical fluoride treatments.