National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

The recommended dosage of fluoride for children under 6 years in non-fluoridated areas is 0.25mg per day. This amount is advised to help prevent dental caries while minimizing the risk of dental fluorosis, a condition that results from excessive fluoride exposure during the time when teeth are developing.

Children in non-fluoridated areas do not receive sufficient fluoride from community water supplies or other sources, which is why supplementation becomes important. The 0.25mg dosage represents an appropriate level to support dental health without exceeding safety guidelines for fluoride intake.

In contrast, higher dosages, such as 0.5mg or 1.0mg, may pose a risk of fluoride toxicity or increase the likelihood of fluorosis. The lower dosage of 0.01mg is insufficient to provide the protective benefits against cavities. Using the correct dosage is critical for achieving the desired protective effects while ensuring the safety of the child’s dental health.