Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but we all know that’s not always the case. The biggest threat to their longevity is tooth decay, which is easily preventable. Simple practices like brushing and flossing can go a long way in preventing cavities. However, there’s another crucial factor that’s necessary for a healthy smile – fluoride. Read on to learn more about what it is and how it can help your teeth in the long term.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral in your bones and teeth. It’s found naturally in soil, water, and foods. In the world of dentistry, it’s commonly used to strengthen the outer layer of the teeth (enamel). Fluoride has proven to help protect against cavities. That’s why it’s produced synthetically for use in oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash. In addition, you find small amounts of it added to public water supplies in the United States and several other countries.
How Does Fluoride Protect Your Smile?
At your routine dentist appointment, your dental hygienist may ask if you want fluoride treatment. Ever wonder why that is? Well, fluoride is proven to protect teeth by preventing demineralization while also being able to reverse the early stages of decay through remineralization.
Fluoride bonds to tooth enamel, which is largely comprised of calcium, phosphorus, hydrogen, and oxygen. It makes a crystal compound called hydroxylapatite. Essentially, fluoride replaces the hydroxyl molecule to make teeth more resistant to cavity-causing bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drinking fluoridated water can lower the risk of cavities by as much as 25%!
Benefits of Fluoride
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends drinking fluoridated water because it supports dental health. Some incredible benefits it offers include:
- Protection from demineralization. When oral bacteria combine with sugars, they produce a harmful acid, eroding tooth enamel and damaging teeth. Fluoride can protect the teeth from demineralization caused by the acid.
- Remineralization. If acid has already damaged the teeth, fluoride can accumulate in demineralized areas and begin strengthening the enamel. This process is called remineralization.
- Lower expenses on dental treatment. Because you’re at lower risk of developing cavities, you can enjoy a healthier smile and avoid needing complex and expensive treatments down the line.
Next time your dental hygienist asks if you want fluoride treatment, consider saying yes. Your smile will thank you!
About the Author
Dr. Terri Alani, DDS has helped patients maintain optimal oral health for over 30 years. At her practice, you can ask for a fluoride mouth rinse to give your teeth a better chance of staying healthy. A dental hygienist will even recommend additional ways to keep your fluoride levels up between visits. To learn more, visit Dr. Alani’s website or call (713) 621-5141.