The benefits of fluoride stretch back into the 19th century with groundbreaking dental research done right here in Michigan. It is through the pioneering works of dentists working in public health that we discovered its role in preventing widespread tooth decay. That’s why Dr. Schau and team encourage you to make sure you’re getting the right amount of fluoride through your toothpaste and water.

Misplaced Fears of Fluoride

To set the record straight, your Saginaw, MI dental team wants you to know that fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in our environment and is useful in very small quantities for your body to function. Only by exceeding the recommended amount, especially during the early part of a child’s life, do you face the risk of developing fluorosis.

Who should use fluoride dental products?

The risk of developing fluorosis persists until around eight years of age. This makes it important to supervise fluoride use in young children. The American Academy of Paediatrics  recommends a rice grain sized bit of toothpaste for under three years kids and a pea size amount for those above three years.
The take-home message from Dr. Schau and team is that, with the recommended dosage, fluoride offers protection against cavities and tooth decay. If you are in doubt of the quantity you’re getting, whether too much or too, consult your Saginaw, MI dentist and we will be happy to help you find what works best for you.