Summary of Fluoride Modalities for Low- and High-Risk Patients
| Fluoride Modality . | Low Caries Risk . | High Caries Risk . |
|---|---|---|
| Toothpaste | Starting at tooth emergence (smear of paste until age 3 y, then pea-sized) | Starting at tooth emergence (smear of paste until age 3 y, then pea-sized) |
| Fluoride varnish | Every 3–6 mo starting at tooth emergence | Every 3–6 mo starting at tooth emergence |
| Over-the-counter mouth rinse | Not applicable | Starting at age 6 y if the child can reliably swish and spit |
| Community water fluoridation | Yes | Yes |
| Dietary fluoride supplements | Yes, if drinking water supply is not fluoridated | Yes, if drinking water supply is not fluoridated |
| Fluoride Modality . | Low Caries Risk . | High Caries Risk . |
|---|---|---|
| Toothpaste | Starting at tooth emergence (smear of paste until age 3 y, then pea-sized) | Starting at tooth emergence (smear of paste until age 3 y, then pea-sized) |
| Fluoride varnish | Every 3–6 mo starting at tooth emergence | Every 3–6 mo starting at tooth emergence |
| Over-the-counter mouth rinse | Not applicable | Starting at age 6 y if the child can reliably swish and spit |
| Community water fluoridation | Yes | Yes |
| Dietary fluoride supplements | Yes, if drinking water supply is not fluoridated | Yes, if drinking water supply is not fluoridated |