Fluoride In Your Dental Care Routine
You must take care of your teeth and gums. Much of your overall health is dependent on your oral health. An oral infection can easily spread to other areas of the body. Such infections often start as cavities, which is why cavity prevention is so important. Fluoride is one of the best options for preventing cavities. Regular use helps prevent tooth decay.
How Does Fluoride Help Your Teeth?
Fluoride is helpful in a few ways. When applied to the teeth of young children, it has been shown to strengthen the enamel of their developing teeth. This makes them stronger and more resilient to bacteria as the child ages.
Fluoride is useful for adults as well. When adults eat sugary foods, bacteria can grow and multiply in the mouth. The bacteria create plaque that leaches minerals from teeth. Good oral hygiene practices will remove the plaque and control the bacteria population. The mouth will begin the process of reabsorbing the minerals back into the teeth. It assists in this process by allowing minerals in the saliva to be reabsorbed by teeth. The enamel helps protect teeth and prevents decay.
Where To Get Fluoride
Some cities add fluoride to the drinking water supply. However, since it works best when applied directly to the teeth, other sources are recommended. There are several sources of fluoride available to people. There are toothpaste, mouth rinses, and prescription-strength treatments. These products are formulated to provide the correct dosage and ensure it is as effective as possible.
Is It Safe?
Fluoride is safe and recommended by the American Dental Association to prevent dental cavities. Ensure that you don’t swallow it, as this may have some negative health effects. Make sure that you follow the guidelines on all products that contain fluoride to avoid dental fluorosis, which is rare, but results in white lesions on the tooth’s surface.
Our dentists will be able to guide you on which products will work the best for your situation and if you have any questions, contact us.