Your oral health says a lot about you. And your smile, or lack of it, can tell a lot about your oral health. With this in mind, many take very seriously the need to always brush and floss their teeth. With many kinds of toothpaste and dental products containing some quantity of fluoride, have you ever wondered just how it benefits you?
WHAT IS FLUORIDE?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in the Earth’s crust. It is also a natural constituent of saliva. As bacteria and foods form acid in your mouth, the naturally occurring fluoride in your mouth wears down, leaving you in need of supplements. Toothpaste and mouth rinses today contain fluoride for the help they render in the mouth.
FLUORIDE & YOUR SMILE
In the mouth, fluoride adds more mineral to your tooth enamel, working to strengthen it. The enamel is the defensive outer layer of the tooth that keeps the tooth from decay. Should it succumb to the pressures of mouth acids, your pulp can become easily infected, and the tooth can completely die off. The US Center for Disease Control credits fluoride for a reduction in cavities and tooth decay.
Every child needs fluoride-containing foods to strengthen their freshly developing enamel, in order to preserve teeth health even as they grow. However, adults benefit from the consumption of fluoride as kids, as well as in their later years.
Fluoride consumption continues to strengthen your teeth’ enamel. It re-mineralizes the protective barrier of your teeth, reducing the risk of dental caries and cavities. Thus, giving you a strong and confident smile.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND FLUORIDE?
The fluoride found in mouth rinses and toothpaste is known as tropical fluoride and can be effective on persons of any age. Besides appearing in dental products, fluoride may also be found in naturally occurring water the world over. Unfortunately, many bottled water brands are not fluoridated – due to extensive treatments. So, alongside your use of fluoridated toothpaste, it is important that you also seek out other fluoride supplements.
Fluoride supplements can be found in the form of tablets, pills, or lozenges. You can also receive a professional-grade fluoride treatment from your dentist. This treatment will help strengthen your teeth, protecting your enamel from the effects of acid-causing dental erosion. Before making a decision on any supplemental fluoride, it is important you speak with your dentist.
At Westgate Dental Center, we provide family dentistry service to patients within Maple Ridge and have been doing this for over 20 years. Our experienced professionals will love to schedule an appointment with you, to help improve your smile in a warm, friendly environment. You can contact us on +1(604) 460-0206.
