What Does Fluoride Do For Teeth?

Having a healthy, beautiful, bright, and confident smile is something everyone wants. One of the biggest factors in having a confident smile is your oral care routine. Brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and attending your regular dental checkups are all a huge part of a healthy oral care routine. However, it should also include fluoride for optimal oral health. What does fluoride do for teeth exactly?

Many toothpastes and mouthwashes come with fluoride in them. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that in the earth’s crust. Because of this, it can also be found in your tap water and many other foods and drinks. If you wonder why this mineral is the key to your oral health, you are not alone. Many people think it’s just a synthetic part of the recipe for toothpaste. However, the mineral has been widely researched and can even reduce the risk of tooth decay. The American Dental Association and the American Medical Association have endorsed fluoride in water supplies because of its effect on tooth decay. It often referred to as nature’s “cavity fighter.”

Safety and Fluoride

If you are a parent, you likely are concerned about everything that goes into your child’s body. You have completely warranted and understandable concerns. Dentists and researchers have found that fluoride is safe and effective when used properly and in appropriate doses. Overuse is possible in children, and decades of research have shown that it is related to a condition called dental fluorosis. This condition occurs when children are exposed to too much fluoride. This can occur if they swallow too much fluoride toothpaste when they are brushing unsupervised at a young age. Monitoring their brushing when they are young is essential to keep them safe from overexposure.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed the safety and benefits of fluoride-based on significant, extended research. When consumed correctly, there is no scientific evidence of adverse health effects. Most people get their fluoride through household tap water and dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash. However, there are professional fluoride treatments that can be administered by a dental professional.

Benefits of What Does Fluoride Do for Teeth

Fluoride can strengthen teeth in both children and adults in multiple ways. First, when you consume fluoride in food or drinks, it becomes a part of the saliva and helps strengthen teeth from the outside. This helps reduce the breakdown and damage of tooth enamel. Second, and specifically related to children, when they eat or drink fluoride, it enters the bloodstream and becomes a part of the development of their permanent teeth. Lastly, when you use toothpaste or mouthwash with fluoride, your teeth absorb the fluoride, strengthening your enamel. These benefits help keep teeth strong and prevent future cavities and tooth sensitivity.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatments can further benefit and strengthen your teeth. A fluoride treatment in Arcadia is applied by a dental professional in the form of a varnish. Dentists often recommend fluoride treatments after a professional cleaning. The effects can last up to 60- to 90-days and can help reduce the risks of tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity. Talk with your dentist to see if this is something that is right for you or your child.

Fluoride Treatments at Premier Dental Esthetics

If you are considering a fluoride treatment or want to discuss what does fluoride do for teeth with a dental professional, contact Premier Dental Esthetics to experience a top dentist in Arcadia. Their dentists can help with setting up a visit to see if it is right for you. If you are struggling with your oral care routine, you can also set up a regular dental check-in and cleaning to get back on track. Contact their office and make an appointment today!