Fluoride is a mineral that is found in all natural water sources and is the ionic form of the trace element Fluorine, which is commonly found in the environment; fluorine reaches water sources by leaching from soil and rocks into groundwater. When used as directed, fluoride is a safe and effective agent that can be used to prevent and control dental caries. Fluoride can be delivered topically and systemically.
Topical fluorides strengthen teeth already present in the mouth, making them more decay resistant, while systemic fluorides are those that are ingested and become incorporated into forming tooth structures. Systemic fluorides also provide topical protection because fluoride is present in saliva, which continually bathes the teeth.
Dental fillings in children’s teeth are most commonly needed due to tooth decay or caries. There is an increasing prevalence of dental decay in children due to the greater access and hidden sugar in diet.
A child’s root canal involves removing the diseased pulp tissue and stabilizing, disinfecting and sealing the remaining healthy portion. After a root canal is performed, the dentist will apply a baby crown to protect and restore the weakened tooth to its normal, healthy function.
A baby tooth extraction, or pediatric tooth extraction, is the surgical removal of a primary tooth. Tooth extraction is typically necessary after a child’s tooth becomes damaged due to an injury, disease, or severe tooth decay.
