Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in various rocks, soil, water, and many foods. It is widely recognized for its dental health benefits and is commonly used in dentistry to prevent tooth decay and strengthen tooth enamel.

Using fluoride for teeth is an essential tool in maintaining good oral health and preventing dental cavities. However, like any substance, it should be used in appropriate amounts and under professional guidance to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

Dental Health Benefits of Fluoride:

• Prevention of Tooth Decay (Caries): Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth.
• Remineralization: Fluoride promotes the remineralization of weakened tooth enamel, reversing early stages of tooth decay.

Sources of Fluoride for Teeth:

• Naturally Occurring: Fluoride is naturally found in varying concentrations in water sources, such as lakes, rivers, and groundwater. Some regions have naturally high fluoride levels, while others may have low levels.
• Dental Products: Fluoride is a common ingredient in toothpaste, mouthwash, and gels used for preventive dental care.
• Fluoridated Water: Public water systems in many countries add fluoride to their water supply to help improve dental health at a community level.
• Dietary Sources: Foods and beverages prepared with fluoridated water, as well as certain foods (e.g., tea, seafood) naturally contain fluoride. In some countries fluoride is added to flour to make bread.

Types of Fluoride:

• Topical Fluoride: Applied directly to the tooth surface, often in the form of toothpaste, mouthwash, or fluoride gels applied by a dentist.
• Systemic Fluoride: Ingested through food, water, or supplements, allowing it to be incorporated into tooth enamel during tooth development.

Fluoride Supplements:

• For individuals living in areas with low fluoride levels in drinking water, fluoride supplements may be recommended by a dentist or healthcare provider, especially for children during their tooth development years.

Fluoride and Children:

• Fluoride is particularly important during the development of primary (baby) and permanent teeth in children.
• Children should use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (pea-sized) under adult supervision to reduce the risk of ingesting excessive fluoride.

Potential Health Considerations:

• Dental Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride consumption during tooth development can cause dental fluorosis, a cosmetic issue that affects tooth enamel, causing discoloration and pitting. It’s primarily a cosmetic concern and doesn’t affect dental health.
• Fluoride Toxicity: In extremely high doses, fluoride can be toxic. This typically occurs with accidental ingestion of fluoride-containing products in young children.

Professional Application of Fluoride Treatment:

• In some cases, dentists may apply topical fluoride treatments during regular dental check-ups to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.

If you would like to learn more about fluoride for teeth and the treatments that we offer at our practice in Kensington, get in touch with us today, or book an appointment.