Fluoride Toothpaste

As part of our patient education program, we at Dr. Eric Meyer’s Fullerton dental office want our patients to understand how to use fluoride toothpaste. A proper tooth brushing is an especially important skill for children to master because it is often one of the first things they do to maintain their own health.

Tooth decay is caused by acidic secretions from bacteria that eat food debris. Fluoride is a mineral that makes tooth enamel more resistant to acid. It is commonly applied to the tops of teeth by dentists and government health initiatives supply it in many places through the drinking water. Fluoride toothpaste also helps to reinforce teeth but works best when the teeth are brushed properly. A session of brushing should last for two full minutes and cover every dental surface.

Toothpaste should be spat instead of swallowed because excessive intake of fluoride can cause enamel discoloration. It should also not be used on oral appliances such as dentures because fluoride can scratch plastic.

Eric M. Meyer, DDS, operates at 2720 North Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, California, 92835. To schedule an appointment, call 714-879-7943 or visit Fullerton Dental and fill out a contact sheet.