Here’s Why Fluoride Is Important for Your Teeth and Here’s How You Can Get It
Acid-producing bacteria damage teeth and cause tooth decay. Over the last few years, healthcare professionals’ interest in fluoride as a teeth-protecting agent has grown considerably. Research has shown that fluoride protects the teeth against the action of cavity-causing bacteria by protecting teeth against acid attacks.
Fluoride is found in various foods and drinks as well as dietary supplements. This fluoride provided by the natural sources becomes mixed with saliva and keeps bathing the teeth in fluoride. This fluoride hardens the tooth enamel, making it resistant to the acid attacks launched by cavity-causing bacteria within the mouth. The dentists refer to this phenomenon as a systemic benefit. Furthermore, dentists recommend fluoride toothpaste and fluoride dental products to people. The fluoride present in these products not only hardens the enamel but also fights early tooth decay. The dentists refer to this positive effect of fluoride products on teeth health as topical benefits.
One of the Best and Easiest Ways to Get Fluoride Is to Drink Fluoridated Water
Fluoride is naturally present in water and therefore, water derived from any source, including lakes, rivers, and wells, is rich in fluoride. In fact, even ocean water has fluoride. Not many people know but authorities have been adding fluoride to public water resources for over 70 years now to bring the level of fluoride in water derived from these resources to the amount needed by the human body to prevent tooth decay. and this has made a drastic difference.
Before authorities started adding fluoride to public water resources, the chances of children developing cavities were three times higher than they are now. It is due to the positive effects associated with the community water fluoridation program that the Centers for Disease Control has included the program in one of the 20th century’s top 10 public health achievements. Today, about 75% of the American population has access to fluoridated community water systems, a development that has made a considerable difference to the health of an average American.
Use a Fluoride-Enriched Toothpaste or Mouthwash
Since 1960, fluoride-enriched toothpaste has played a positive role in bettering oral health. If you want to use fluoride toothpaste to meet your body’s daily fluoride needs, we recommend investing your money in a toothpaste that comes with not only fluoride but also the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Using this toothpaste, brush your teeth at least twice every day.
If you have young children, start teaching them the importance of oral hygiene early in life. You can start brushing a child’s teeth after they turn three — use fluoride toothpaste, albeit in only a small amount, to clean their teeth. Fluoride-enriched mouthwashes are another good way to get your daily dose of fluoride. However, be cautious and keep these mouthwashes away from children aged six years or less.
Fluoride Supplements Are Another Option, but They Require a Prescription
If water, toothpaste, and mouthwashes do not work for you, you can opt for a fluoride supplement. However, keep in mind that you will need a prescription to get access to these supplements. In most cases, fluoride supplements are prescribed to individuals aged less than 16 who do not have adequate access to community drinking water and therefore, are highly likely to develop cavities. Fluoride supplements come in the form of lozenges, drops, and tablets, and are easy to consume. If you think your child needs fluoride supplements, talk to your dentist, and see what they have to say.
Consider Professional Application Your Last Resort
If you have tried all the above-mentioned options and nothing has worked out for you, we recommend talking to your dentist and discussing the possibility of professional application of fluoride.
For more information regarding your dental health, please give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!