Should fluoride be applied when dental caries are found during a child's physical examination?

When dental caries are found during a child's physical examination, it is usually recommended to apply fluoride. Fluoride application can effectively prevent the progression of dental caries, mainly by enhancing the acid resistance of enamel and inhibiting bacterial metabolism.

Fluoride coating is suitable for early caries in deciduous or permanent teeth, where chalky patches or shallow cavities appear on the tooth surface but do not involve the pulp. Fluoride can combine with hydroxyapatite to form more stable fluorapatite, reducing enamel solubility. Routine fluoride application should be carried out by dental professionals. Sodium fluoride gel or fluoride protective paint is commonly used, and 2-4 times a year can reduce the incidence of dental caries. Avoid eating and drinking water within 30 minutes after applying fluoride to increase fluoride retention rate. For teeth with obvious cavities, filling treatment should be carried out first, followed by fluoride application. Children with a history of living in areas with high incidence of dental fluorosis or daily consumption of high fluoride water should assess their total fluoride intake before deciding whether to apply fluoride. Children with allergies should inform their doctor of their relevant medical history before use. In rare cases, adverse reactions such as temporary gum irritation or nausea may occur, which can usually resolve on their own. After applying fluoride, it is still necessary to adhere to the twice daily Pap brushing method, use fluoride toothpaste, and limit high sugar diet intake.

It is recommended that parents take their children for oral examinations every 3-6 months, and for permanent molars with deep grooves, consideration may be given to combining with groove closure. Add foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, such as cheese and nuts, to your daily diet to avoid unclean oral hygiene after breastfeeding at night. If children resist oral treatment, anxiety can be alleviated through picture book explanations or role-playing.