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Fluoride

Little girl drinking water from a fountain.These resources explain how Head Start programs can help families prevent tooth decay by using fluoride. Fluoride is a natural mineral that is present in public water (tap water), most toothpaste brands, and fluoride applied by health professionals.

Using Silver Diamine Fluoride on Children's Teeth

This handout for parents describes silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and how it can be used to prevent and treat tooth decay. It also describes the benefits of using SDF on young children.

Brushing Your Child's Teeth

Brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay (cavities). Learn when to begin brushing a child’s teeth and how often.

Getting Fluoride for Your Child

There are several important ways to make teeth strong and prevent tooth decay. These include brushing with fluoride toothpaste and having a health professional apply fluoride varnish.

Encouraging Your Child to Drink Water

Giving children water to drink throughout the day is one of the best ways to keep their teeth healthy. Learn about fun ways to encourage children to drink water.

Fluorides

Learn about the role of fluoride — including fluoride toothpaste, fluoride supplements, fluoride varnish, silver diamine fluoride, and community water fluoridation — in the prevention and treatment of tooth decay.

Encouraging Children to Drink Water

Learn why drinking water is important for good oral health and find resources Head Start staff can use to promote drinking water.

HeadStart.gov

official website of the Administration for Children and Families

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