Fluoride is a mineral that is important to dental health, as it strengthens the tooth enamel. The teeth become more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and can even reverse early tooth decay.
So, where can I find fluoride, you may ask? Fluoride is found in many places naturally and has been added to certain products to aid in dental health.
Fluoride Supplement
Fluoride supplements are only available by prescription. They come in tablet, drop, and lozenge forms. Drs. Jeff DeMercy may recommend fluoride supplements to children who are between six months and sixteen years of age that live in areas without enough fluoride in their drinking water supply.
Water
Fluoride is naturally found in most water sources, including rivers, lakes, wells, and oceans. Fluoride has been added to public water supplies for the last 70 years to bring the fluoride level up. Before water was fluoridated, children developed about three times as many cavities. About 75 percent of the population in the U.S. uses fluoridated water systems.
Toothpaste
Use toothpaste that has fluoride to help prevent cavities. Look for a toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance to be sure that it has fluoride. Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
Mouthwash
Many mouthwashes contain fluoride. They make your teeth more resistant to tooth decay. Children should not use fluoride mouthwash until they are about seven unless our dentists recommend it. This is because many young children will swallow the mouthwash.
We invite you to contact DeMercy Dental today to learn more about fluoride in Roswell, Georgia, and to schedule your next visit.