This completely natural mineral has long been known for its powerful impact on dentistry and keeping our teeth healthy by fighting against tooth decay. This is why it always helps to have a deeper, well-rounded knowledge of what fluoride means and how it works so that people in Fontana, California can make educated decisions regarding their dental health. In this article, you will learn everything about fluoride like why it is an advantage to your teeth, how it strengthens them and what are the top ways of using fluoride to take good care of dental health as advised by a dentist in Fontana, CA.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water, soil, plants, and many foods. It is also added to public water supplies, dental products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses, and drugs. Its main purpose is to help remineralize tooth enamel, making it more durable against cavities.
Benefits
Helps in Tooth Enamel Strengthener:
The first layer is tooth enamel; it is the hard part of your teeth that keeps them safe from decay. Fluoride can remineralize the enamel, which means it helps repair very early stages of tooth damage from plaque bacteria and sugars in saliva. The process of remineralization not only strengthens the enamel but can also help to reverse early signs of tooth decay.
Reducing Acid Production
Fluoride inhibits the ability of bacteria in your mouth to make acid. Bacteria create acids that melt tooth enamel when they feed on sugars and starches. Fluoride works on cavities as it inhibits the production of acids, thus reducing your overall risks.
Protects Children’s Teeth from decay
Fluoride helps a great deal in the regulation of dental health, particularly for children residing in Fontana, California. Because their adult teeth are just starting to come in, fluoride works under the surface of your child’s smile to build a healthy base for a lifetime. Children who have a high risk of dental caries may benefit most from having fluoride treatments.
Sources of Fluoride
Community Water Fluoridation
Fontana, like most other communities around here, puts fluoride in its tap water. Fluoridating community water is a cost-effective way to prevent cavities in children and adults, according to the CDC. One of the simplest and most effective ways to receive fluoride is through drinking water that has been fluoridated.
Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouth Rinses
It is essential to use fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses while doing your daily oral care. This is given by the fact that fluoride products can be applied directly onto the teeth, making them stronger because they are able to protect themselves better against cavities. Opt for fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses that have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.
Fluoride Supplements
Fluoride tablets are sometimes prescribed — especially for children who do not have access to fluoridated water. These dietary nutraceuticals, either in the form of drops or pills should be used only if recommended to you by your family dentist/pediatrician.
Safety and Considerations
Fluoride Overexposure
Though fluoride can be helpful in specific doses, overexposure damages the body and causes dental fluorosis mainly in children whose teeth are in development. Dental Fluorosis — Only when consumed in excess, it can result in the presence of these white spots or streaks on the teeth. Parents should monitor their children’s use of fluoride toothpaste to avoid overdosing, applying only a pea-sized amount.
Fluoride is important for the health of your teeth. It is essential for dental care as it helps strengthen enamel, reduces acid production, and promotes remineralization.
