12/14/2025
How to Protect Your Child’s Teeth If Your Water Lacks Fluoride 🦷
Many parents are surprised to learn that their local water supply may not contain fluoride. Since fluoride plays a key role in strengthening enamel, replenishing lost minerals, and preventing cavities, children without access to fluoridated water may face a higher risk of tooth decay.
That’s why leading organizations—including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry—strongly support fluoride as a safe, effective, and affordable way to protect growing smiles.
The good news? If your water isn’t fluoridated, there are excellent alternatives. Using fluoridated toothpaste is essential for children of all ages when used correctly. For kids over age 6, fluoride rinses may provide added protection. At dental visits, topical fluoride varnishes are highly effective and now preferred by pediatric dentists over ingestible supplements.
Daily habits matter too. Parents should supervise and help with brushing, especially for younger children, since kids often miss hard-to-reach back teeth. Tools like disclosing tablets can reveal areas that need extra attention. Flossing is just as important—parents should assist until children develop the hand skills needed to floss properly.
Ingestible fluoride drops or tablets may be prescribed for some high-risk children, but they must be used cautiously and are not recommended for children under 3 unless clearly needed.
👉 Bottom line: Even without fluoridated water, children can maintain strong, healthy teeth with fluoride toothpaste, supervised brushing and flossing, and professional fluoride treatments during dental visits.
Read more here:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-12-child-teeth-lacks-fluoride.html
