How Does Fluoride Affect My Teeth?

It’s a common question heard at dental offices around the world. After your dental team gets your pearly whites squeaky clean at your preventive exam and cleaning, next comes the common query: would you like a fluoride treatment today? But what exactly is this add-on, and how is it beneficial to your smile? Here’s a closer look at this mighty mineral, and what it can do to toughen up your teeth!

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in many places, including the foods you eat like leavy greens like spinach, potatoes, raisins, coffee, black tea, and even shellfish such as crabs, lobster, and shrimp.

It is also naturally released from rocks and soil and can be found in almost all bodies of water including lakes, rivers, and groundwater, and is even purposely added to many public supplies.

How Can Fluoride Help My Smile?

In addition to being found in foods and water supplies, it is also a naturally occurring mineral in your teeth. It protects your smile by re-mineralizing the surfaces and tiny pores, strengthening them against plaque acid and helping to prevent cavities and decay.

In addition to being absorbed when you consume fluoride rich foods and beverages, it is widely available in many oral health products including toothpaste, mouthwash, and supplements.

Is Fluoride Safe?

Over the years, there have been hundreds of studies conducted on the safety of fluoride in public water supplies. Today, the Department of Health and Human Services in the United Stays recommends a concentration of 0.7 milligrams of fluoride to each liter of water, or the equivalent of three drops of water to a 55-gallon barrel, and the World Health Organization believes the maximum safe concentration is 1.5ppm.

Studies have also shown that fluoridating water is very safe, only running a slight risk of a condition called fluorosis at levels double what is added to most public water supplies. This condition may cause white spots on the teeth and is otherwise harmless. Another rare condition, skeletal fluorosis can damage the bones but is typically only found in people who have had extensive, long-term exposure to excess fluoride due to accidental contamination of the water supply from things like fires or explosions.

The great news is that yes, fluoride is not only safe in the foods you eat, the oral hygiene products you use, the water supply you drink from, and even as a treatment from your dentist. If consumed regularly, this magnificent mineral can toughen up your teeth, protecting them from cavities and decay and strengthening your smile for a lifetime!

About Dr. Phillips

Dr. Laura Phillips is proud to protect you and your family’s teeth and gums with a variety of smile-saving procedures including fluoride treatment. To keep your gorgeous grin looking and feeling its best, ask about adding a varnish of this mighty mineral at your next preventive exam and cleaning. To book your appointment, visit our website or call us today at 432-570-4433.