What is Fluoride and Why Should I Use It?

When we think of fluoride we think of children between the ages of 6 and 15 when permanent teeth begin to come in. At those ages, fluoride is important for dental development, particularly with all of the sugars kids consume. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel by replacing nutrients that are lost over time. It can even repair small holes in your teeth caused by loss of those nutrients. It aids in dental development prior to age 6 making teeth more resistent to decay. Fluoride is found in many fruits, vegetables and juices, water and of course in toothpastes and mouthwashes. A dentist can also treat teeth with fluoride using foam, gel or varnish. These treatments are very fluoride rich as opposed to toothpastes or mouthwashes. Fluoride supplements can also be prescribed.

Many dentists also recommend fluoride treatments for adults, because believe it or not, adults get cavities too. If you drink bottled water exclusively, you may need fluoride treatment. Extra fluoride protection is warranted in conjunction with medications that cause dry mouth because reduction of saliva increases the risk of cavities. Radiation patients also experience loss of saliva. The process of aging often results in gum recession, exposing part of the root of the tooth and increasing the risk of decay. Even people with braces are exposed to a higher risk of tooth decay from the braces trapping in bacteria.

You can even buy certain fluoride gels over the counter for home use. You need only apply a little in the mouth, let it sit for awhile and rinse. The usual fluoride treatment at the dentist's office involves the dentist filling a mouthguard with flavored fluoride and putting it in your mouth for a few short minutes. The guard is then removed and your rinse your mouth.

Studies have conclusively shown that when used correctly, fluoride treatments significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay in both children and adults. Each patient is different so if you're worried about not getting enough fluoride, just talk with your dentist and he or she will be happy to let you know if fluoride supplements are recommended.

A Family Dental Care Center
2030 West Main. St.
Jeffersonville, PA 19403