10 Jun Your Guide to Fluoride Part 1 – Benefits | Prescott, AZ
Fluoride is an oral health solution which has the popular benefit of being able to prevent cavities. While it does make the enamel more resistant to harmful acids, when used topically, some families have concerns about the toxicity of ingesting fluoride. In order to determine how much weight should be given to this controversy, we thought it would be helpful to discuss the benefits, risks, and alternatives to fluoride.
The main benefit of fluoride that we utilize today is its ability to prevent cavities. It accomplishes this in multiple ways:
Acid Production
Fluoride is able to reduce the acid production of bacteria. This acid is a major cause of cavities and tooth decay, so preventing its presence in the mouth is a powerful method of cavity prevention. Studies have shown that fluoride may also inhibit the growth of oral bacteria which in turn generates this acid production, further helping the issue.
Mineralization
The normal course of eating and drinking can slowly strip minerals from our tooth enamel. If these minerals are not replenished, this process of demineralization can result in permanent loss of the enamel. Enter fluoride, which can help slow the demineralization process as well as remineralize tooth enamel, strengthening the teeth and helping to prevent the formation of tooth decay and cavities. Its help with both processes is another reason why it is so effective.
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day is enough to give your enamel the amount it needs. Remember to brush softly, like a massage, rotating the brush in circular movements. Don’t forget to floss as well! It’s essential in removing unwanted plaque and food debris from between the teeth and gums.
Be sure to catch part 2 where we discuss the potential risks involved with using fluoride.
Photo by Pablo Merchán Montes on Unsplash