You might have heard the buzz recently surrounding fluoride. If not, let us assure you there has been a surge of misinformation surrounding fluoride, leading to confusion about its safety and effectiveness in dental care.
There is scientific research that consistently supports fluoride’s role in preventing tooth decay and strengthening enamel, making it an important part of routine oral health care.
Many of you might be reading this and wondering, what exactly is fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water, and rocks. It has been safely used for decades in community water supplies, toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professional dental treatments to help protect teeth from cavities.
The American Dental Association (ADA), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and numerous dental experts endorse fluoride as an essential tool in maintaining lifelong oral health.
Now, we don’t want any of our patients feeling uneasy about fluoride or the conversation surrounding it. We encourage you to review credible scientific resources and discuss your questions with us. Making informed decisions about your oral health starts with trustworthy information and open conversations and we’re here to talk you through whatever concerns you might have.
Starting with how we use fluoride as part of our preventative dental care services.
How Is Fluoride Used in Dental Offices?
Fluoride treatments are a common preventive measure provided by dental professionals to help strengthen teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.
Here’s what you can typically expect during an in-office fluoride treatment:
Fluoride Application Options
Dentists and hygienists apply professional-strength fluoride in different forms, including:
- Fluoride Varnish: A highly concentrated fluoride coating that is painted onto the teeth at your dental visit. It dries quickly and is safe for all ages, including young children.
- Fluoride Rinse: At home fluoride mouthwash such as over the counter ACT that is swished around the mouth for a short time.
Quick and Painless Treatment
Fluoride treatments are fast, painless, and require no special preparation. After application, patients may be advised to avoid eating or drinking for a short period to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into the enamel.
Who Benefits from Fluoride Treatments?
While fluoride is beneficial for people of all ages, certain individuals may especially benefit from in-office fluoride applications, including:
- Children and teenagers whose developing teeth need extra protection.
- Adults with a history of cavities or weakened enamel.
- People with dry mouth (xerostomia), which increases cavity risk.
- Individuals with braces or dental restorations, as these can create areas where plaque builds up more easily.
The Science Behind Fluoride: How It Protects Your Teeth
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by:
- Strengthening enamel to make teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars.
- Replenishing lost minerals in teeth that have been weakened by plaque and acids.
- Reducing harmful bacteria that contribute to cavities.
When fluoride is used consistently—through fluoridated water, toothpaste, and professional treatments—it provides long-term protection against decay and supports overall oral health.
Making an Informed Decision About Fluoride
It’s natural to have questions, especially when fluoride suddenly makes headlines and stirs up some controversy. If you’re unsure whether fluoride treatments are right for you or your child, we invite you to consult with us directly so that our team can provide personalized recommendations based on your oral health needs.Whether to discuss fluoride options or book your next appointment, contact us anytime!
