Tap vs Bottled Water for Kids’ Teeth in Las Vegas

Tap Water vs Bottled Water: What Matters for Kids’ Teeth?

Water, free from any additives, is a very healthy choice of beverage for kids. Water will help keep them hydrated without exposing their teeth to any sugars and also rinsing off any residues of foods.

The main thing that sets apart tap water from bottled water is the amount of fluoride.

Fluoride in tap water will ensure regular fluoride intake at a low dose. The mineral helps fortify tooth enamel and makes it resistant to caries.

Bottled water will make a great daily drink too; however, some bottled water contains minimal amounts of fluoride, while others – high amounts. If the bottled water is your child’s main source of drinking water, fluoride intake becomes crucial.

Does Las Vegas Tap Water Contain Fluoride?

Yes, because southern Nevada municipal water has around 0.7 mg/L of fluoride.

Around 0.3 mg/L of fluoride naturally occurs in the water, while the additional fluoride has been added to increase the fluoride content up to 0.7 mg/L. The fluoride content is in accordance with the recommendation made by the US Public Health Service for community water fluoridation.

Thus, for children living in Las Vegas, it will be beneficial to drink municipal tap water.

How Does Fluoride Help Children’s Teeth?

Fluoride is a substance that makes the enamel strong and protects teeth from acid erosion.

Teeth of children undergo constant exposure to acids due to the activities of bacteria in the mouth when they eat carbohydrates and sugars. Fluoride works as a protector of enamel under such conditions. Parents can also learn more about the benefits of fluoride for children’s teeth.

Fluoride in water will not eliminate the need for brushing your teeth. It is important to brush twice per day using fluoride toothpaste, practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly.

Does Bottled Water Contain Fluoride?

Bottled water can also have fluoride in it; however, the fluoride concentration may vary.

The fluoride content in bottled water can either be natural or it may be added by the manufacturer of the bottled water. Some bottled water can also have very small amounts of fluoride.

If your child consumes bottled water occasionally, there is no need to check every bottle. However, in case of consumption of bottled water most of the time, it can be helpful to check the label or the manufacturer.

Consumption of bottled water will not cause any cavities. The only reason for worry here is that a child consuming low fluoride water will have lesser fluoride intake compared to a child who consumes fluoridated tap water.

The risk of cavities will always depend on oral hygiene habits.

What About Filtered Water?

It is possible that the process of filtration will have an effect on the amount of fluoride in the water system.

The process of reverse osmosis and distillation will help to lower the levels of fluoride in water. Normal filters made of carbon or charcoal usually don’t affect the level of fluoride.

In case when your family is using any filtration system at home, you should consult the company that produces this product in case you are not sure about removing fluoride by the system.

Parents shouldn’t provide children with fluoride supplements just because their child is drinking bottled or filtered water.

What Should Las Vegas Parents Give Their Kids to Drink?

For everyday dental health, plain water is generally the best choice.

Practical options include:

• Fluoridated Las Vegas tap water at home
• Plain bottled water at school or while traveling
• Plain water in a refillable bottle during outdoor activities

It is not about making all drinks identical. The idea is to make plain water your first choice while knowing the total fluoride intake of your kid. Parents can also read more about hydration for kids and oral health.

The flavored waters, energy drinks, soft drinks, and other drinks are different from plain water. Constant contact with sugar or acid can increase chances of tooth decay or erosion of the teeth.

When Should Parents Ask a Kids Dentist About Water and Fluoride?

Consider discussing your child’s drinking water with a children dentist or pediatric dentist if your child:

• Drinks bottled water almost exclusively
• Uses water treated by reverse osmosis or distillation
• Drinks from a private well or nonmunicipal source
• Has had repeated cavities
• Has enamel concerns
• Recently changed water sources

A pediatric dentist can review your child’s water source, fluoride toothpaste use, diet, oral hygiene, cavity history, and enamel condition before making recommendations. Families can also learn more about preventive pediatric dental care available through Desert Kids Dental.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Las Vegas tap water good for kids’ teeth?

Yes. Las Vegas municipal tap water contains about 0.7 mg/L of fluoride, which can help strengthen enamel and reduce cavity risk. Tap water still works best as part of a complete oral-health routine.

Does bottled water have sufficient fluoride for your children?

It depends on the bottled water product. While some have fluoride, others have little of it. If you use bottled water as your primary source of drinking water, then look for the manufacturer’s information regarding fluoride or discuss it with your pediatric dentist.

Will drinking bottled water raise the risk of cavities?

Drinking bottled water does not cause any cavities. However, your child may get less cavity prevention benefits through drinking water that has low levels of fluoride in it.

Is filtered tap water preferable to bottled water?

None of the two types of water is better than another one. In general, the primary concern when talking about oral health is fluoride consumption.

Should I consult my kid's dentist regarding my child's drinking water?

It would be a good idea to consult your kid’s dentist, especially if your child uses bottled, filtered, or well water.