Is fluoride in water safe for my child?

Yes. The American Dental Association (ADA) continues to support water fluoridation at the optimal range of 0.7 to 1.2 parts per million (ppm), as determined by the United States Public Health Service (USPHS). According to the ADA, infant formula can be mixed with water that is fluoride free or contains low levels of fluoride. Babies less than one year old need less fluoride than everyone else. That’s why Nursery® Water has a fluoride level of 0.7 ppm or less.

Other sources that contain fluoride, according to the ADA, are fluoride toothpaste, fluoride mouth rinse, doctor prescribed fluoride dietary supplements, or naturally occurring fluoride in drinking water.

What is the purpose of adding fluoride to distilled drinking water?

The primary purpose in adding fluoride to distilled drinking water is to help strengthen teeth. Nursery® Water is purified water that is steam distilled for purity. Drinking water with added fluoride in the proper amounts has been shown to be so effective that the ADA supports municipal water fluoridation and refers to this as the single most effective measure to prevent tooth decay. This has also been endorsed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, labeling municipal water fluoridation as one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. 1

Consult your physician or dental professional if using another fluoridated product.

Helpful Tips
for Parents

Don’t Leave Me!

Nothing compares to the incredible bond you have with your baby. She lights up when she sees you and calms down at the sound of your voice. This connection is the joy of your life—until the day she won’t even let you go in the next room without crying and clinging.
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Vitamin Efficiency

Multivitamins seem like a good way to ensure your toddler gets the nutrients he needs. But before you add the fun shapes and sweet flavors to his routine, talk to your pediatrician. Many think multivitamins are unnecessary for children unless they lack certain vitamins and minerals because of a food sensitivity or poor diet. If you decide multivitamins are right for your toddler, give him a children’s formula to prevent toxic doses, keep them out of his reach and teach him vitamins are medicine and not candy.

Source: Mayo Clinic website at www.mayoclinic.com, August 4, 2006

Share and Share Alike

It’s normal for toddlers to resist sharing, but you can help your little one see the benefits. Teach her games or puzzles where everyone works together toward a common goal. Encourage taking turns so she learns sharing isn’t the same as giving things away. Before play dates, put away toys she’d rather not share and bring out those they can play with together. Set an example by offering to share your snack or magazine. Use positive reinforcement rather than punishment to avoid feelings of resentment. Eventually, she’ll learn sharing is more fun than keeping things to herself.

Source: “How to Teach Your Preschooler to Share,” by Karen Miles, www.parentcenter.babycenter.com, accessed August 13, 2007