Low Cost Dental Fluoride Poster

Fluoride is a mineral naturally found in soil and water. When applied to the teeth, fluoride combines with the enamel ( outside layer ) to make the tooth more resistant to decay.

Fluoride can be received through many sources. In Illinois, it is the law that municipal water supplies must be fluoridated. Fluoride in the water is known as systemic fluoride, as it is swallowed and ingested into the body.

Systemic fluoride has the greatest benefit to the teeth while in their developmental stages. When teeth are not yet erupted, but developing in the jaw bone, fluoride travels via blood stream to the buds and strengthens the layers of the developing tooth.

Fluoride is also available in many toothpastes, commercial fluoride mouthrinses, fluoride treatments at the dental office and fluoride mouthrinses in school. This type of fluoride is known as topical fluoride, as it is only used externally and not swallowed. Therefore, it benefits only the teeth present in the mouth.

ACTIVITIES

1. Cut an apple into sections. Dip the apple in food dye to notice the dye penetrating into the apple. This is the same action fluoride has on the teeth.

2. Use the attached sheet to have the children draw a picture of the various sources of fluoride ie. water, toothpaste, fluoride treatments at the dental office, fluoride mouthrinse.

3. Cut pictures from magazines which show sources of fluoride.