One of the most important discoveries in dentistry was realizing the beneficial effects of fluoride on tooth enamel. While fluoride has since played a large role in protecting children’s teeth, its benefits do not stop just because we grow up. At Lakeside Dental in Folsom, we encourage patients of all ages to include fluoride as part of their everyday oral care.
How Fluoride Helps Your Teeth
You’ve heard about fluoride being good for your teeth, but what does it really do? Fluoride helps maintain your dental health in two important ways.
- Fluoride slows down oral bacteria. These bacteria produce acids that weaken tooth enamel and irritate the gums. Reducing their activity, even temporarily, lowers the damage they cause.
- Fluoride helps your teeth repair themselves. Your saliva already does some of that work by replacing minerals your enamel loses during the day. Fluoride speeds up the repair your teeth already do on their own, helping enamel stay strong and resist cavities. There is even evidence that enamel repaired with the help of fluoride is stronger than ordinary enamel.
How can you receive the benefits of fluoride? Use fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, optionally use a fluorinated mouthwash, and drink fluoridated tap water, when available.
Why Fluoride Matters for Adults
Fluoride isn’t something you outgrow. Our teeth face plenty of challenges, like acid from the foods we eat and the fluids we drink, and everyday wear. Fluoride helps our tooth enamel stand up to these challenges, preventing decay and saving many adults from costly dental problems.
The Added Benefit for Children
Children have an extra advantage when it comes to fluoride. Using fluoride as a child strengthens the tooth enamel of our permanent teeth even before they erupt! This gives teeth a strong start from the very beginning, reducing childhood cavities and setting them up for a healthy smile their entire life.
Finding the Right Balance
More fluoride isn’t always better. While there are fluoride supplements on the market, most people get sufficient protection from the directed use of fluoride toothpaste and rinses, the availability in drinking water, and applications during dental visits. Too much fluoride in children can actually discolor the permanent teeth, so sticking to no more than recommended amounts is important. If you wonder how much fluoride is right for you, our team at Lakeside Dental is happy to help. We can guide you toward the right balance so you and your family receive all the benefits fluoride offers, without overdoing it.
Simple Habits, Stronger Smiles
If you are in the habit of brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and scheduling regular dental visits, fluoride supports these good habits by strengthening tooth enamel and protecting against decay. Simple habits like these build stronger smiles. To arrange for your semi-annual dental exam, give us a call today. We are happy to answer any questions or concerns you have about fluoride treatments, toothpaste options, and preventive care. Rest assured, we are here to help you protect your smile at every stage of life.
