According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the widespread use of fluoride in the United States has contributed to the decline in cavities in our country. The process of adding fluoride to public drinking water is considered one of the top public health achievements in the 20th century. But what exactly is this cavity fighting ingredient?
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral or salt found naturally all over the earth. Usually white and colorless, fluoride salts can have a bitter taste. In the 1930s, it was discovered that people who drank naturally fluoridated water were less likely to have cavities than those who did not have access to fluoridated water.
Where is fluoride found?
Fluoride can be found naturally in water and even the earth’s crust. Once it’s cavity-fighting properties were discovered, it was added to drinking water, toothpaste, and mouth rinses. When selecting a toothpaste or mouth rinse to use, look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. First given in 1931, this seal is given to the best in dental products, like those using fluoride.
At the dentist’s office, you’ll find fluoride treatments as part of our recommended teeth cleaning procedure. We also recommend fluoride drops for infants and fluoride tablets for older children and teens.
What are the benefits of fluoride?
When fluoride is ingested or applied directly to teeth, it slows down tooth decay. Your teeth go through a process called demineralization and remineralization, when your teeth lose some of their enamel and then replace it. Fluoride helps your body create strong teeth and aids the remineralization process to form strong enamel. It helps make strong teeth resistant to cavities.
At Smiles by Design, we want to answer all your questions about fluoride and dental health. Contact us today to set up a consultation.