A Family Dentist’s Guide to Using Fluoride

One point that your family dentist will always reiterate is the importance of an excellent oral hygiene regimen. A bright and healthy smile is considered attractive and gives people a good impression. The boost in confidence and self-esteem can have a significant impact on many aspects of a person’s life, including both professional and personal relationships.

Fluoride contributes a crucial role in preserving the teeth’s health and strength. While many may know about the dental aid provided by fluoride, they may not understand its specific contributions and how to use it to maintain the teeth’s health.

Fluoride information

Sources of fluoride

All water, soil and certain food contain fluoride. It is a naturally occurring element that helps fight against tooth decay. People get fluoride in various ways, with the most popular being toothpaste. However, there are several dental products containing fluoride in different percentages, such as supplements and dental rinses. Certain communities also add fluoride to their water supply, an act called fluoridation. The practice of fluoridating water started after multiple studies showed that people who got the mineral through their drinking water had fewer occurrences of tooth decay than those who did not.

How fluoride works

To better understand how fluoride helps combat tooth decay, one must first learn about the origin of tooth decay. When a person eats, especially starchy or sugary foods, the bacteria in the mouth feast on the sugar and carbs leftover in the mouth and produce acid. The acid attacks the minerals of the tooth enamel and initiates a process called demineralization. This process is harmful and leaves the teeth vulnerable.

When people use products containing fluoride, the elements are deposited on the enamel to replenish the lost minerals. If this does not happen, tooth decay commences automatically and could cause severe damage to the tooth, as well as eventual tooth loss. According to the CDC, fluoridation can reduce the occurrence of tooth decay by up to 25 percent.

Using fluoride correctly

Fluoride can be used through systemic or topical application. The method of application has an impact on how the fluoride works on the tooth. Toothpaste and dental rinses are topical since they are applied directly to the teeth. This helps fortify the teeth from the outside. When fluoride is swallowed, it is systemic and the effects work from the inside. Instances of systemic application of fluoride include food items containing fluoride, as well as supplements like fluoride tablets.

Fluoridated water is both systemic and topical since it touches the teeth directly before going into the bloodstream. To get the best result from fluoride usage, people can combine different sources of fluoride, including getting fluoride treatment from their family dentist.

Final note

An attractive smile is essential for creating a good first impression, but it is only one of the many reasons for keeping the teeth healthy and strong. To learn more about how fluoride works and fluoride treatments, contact your family dentist for more information.

Request an appointment here: https://jacksonheightdental.com or call 82nd St. Dental at (718) 709-3883 for an appointment in our Jackson Heights office.

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