Florida’s fluoride ban: Tips for maintaining your children’s dental health.

A pediatric dentist with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Natalie Carr-Bustillo, observes a concerning trend linked to public health policy changes in Florida. Historically, she could identify children from Plant City by the severity of their dental issues, particularly cavities situated in hard-to-reach areas between their teeth. This disparity stemmed from the community’s delay in introducing fluoride to its drinking water, which only began in 2013.

However, a recent legislative development has raised alarms among dental health professionals. On Thursday, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law prohibiting the addition of fluoride to public drinking water supplies statewide, a decision that will take effect on July 1. Experts worry that this move may exacerbate the dental health crisis among children and adults alike. Dr. Carr-Bustillo asserts that cavities can progress significantly faster in areas lacking fluoride, raising her concerns about the potential for increased dental problems in the coming years.

Fluoride use in drinking water has long been supported by prominent health organizations, including the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Florida Dental Association. The role of fluoride in promoting oral health is well-documented and integral to preventing cavities among children, who are particularly vulnerable as their teeth develop.

In light of these changes, Dr. Carr-Bustillo has provided several recommendations for parents to help safeguard their children’s dental health. She emphasizes the importance of daily brushing. Children should use fluoride toothpaste in the morning and at night, with parental supervision encouraged until they reach ages six to eight.

Additionally, she underscores that post-brushing rinsing can wash away beneficial fluoride, advising parents to allow children to spit after brushing without rinsing. If rinsing is necessary, a fluoride mouthwash is preferable, although this is not suitable for very young children. Furthermore, regular flossing, ideally once a day before bedtime, is essential, with parental involvement recommended until children reach approximately 12 years of age.

Dr. Carr-Bustillo also stresses the need for routine dental check-ups every six months to catch cavities early, as preventive care will become increasingly critical in a fluoride-deprived environment. Parents can also consider applying fluoride varnish during dental visits to enhance protection against cavities.

Beyond dental hygiene, Dr. Carr-Bustillo highlights the importance of reducing sugar intake, noting that hidden sugars in foods and drinks can contribute significantly to dental problems. Encouraging children to consume more water can also mitigate acid levels in the mouth and reduce the likelihood of sugary beverage consumption.

As this new policy takes effect, the health implications are a matter of urgency for dental professionals like Dr. Carr-Bustillo, who advocate for proactive measures to ensure the well-being of the community’s children.