When can fluoride tablets/lozenges be introduced to children?

When can fluoride tablets/lozenges be introduced to children?

• A. 6 months
• B. 1-2 years
• C. 3-4 years
• D. 5-6 years

Answer: (B)

Introducing fluoride tablets or lozenges around one to two years of age aligns with when a child can safely swallow small doses under supervision and when the first primary teeth are starting to erupt. This timing helps ensure a steady systemic fluoride exposure during early enamel formation, which supports caries prevention. Starting earlier increases choking risk and the chance of excessive fluoride intake before feeding and swallowing patterns are well established, while starting much later misses a window when fluoride can best contribute to enamel defense in newly erupted teeth. Dosing is guided by the child’s age and the fluoride content of local water, but the key idea is to begin around one to two years.

Introducing fluoride tablets or lozenges around one to two years of age aligns with when a child can safely swallow small doses under supervision and when the first primary teeth are starting to erupt. This timing helps ensure a steady systemic fluoride exposure during early enamel formation, which supports caries prevention. Starting earlier increases choking risk and the chance of excessive fluoride intake before feeding and swallowing patterns are well established, while starting much later misses a window when fluoride can best contribute to enamel defense in newly erupted teeth. Dosing is guided by the child’s age and the fluoride content of local water, but the key idea is to begin around one to two years.