Fluoride is a natural substance found in water, soil, and rocks. It’s also in toothpaste and the fluoride treatments we offer at Springhurst Hills Dentistry! Why is fluoride so important to your dental health? Do your teeth need it?
Fluoride: A Success Story
In 1945, Grand Rapids became the first city in the world to add fluoride to its drinking water. This wasn’t a random, reckless choice. Research into fluoride and its effect on reducing tooth decay had been going on for decades. This was the first big test. Over the next decade, researchers monitored tooth decay in the children of Grand Rapids. They discovered a 60 percent drop in cavities! Since then, fluoride has been added to water systems everywhere. It’s seen as one of the greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.
How Does Fluoride Work?
The outer layer of your teeth is called enamel. When you eat foods full of carbs or sugar, bacteria interact with them and create acid. This acid weakens your teeth, making you more vulnerable to decay. Fluoride, mixed with the calcium and phosphate in your spit, strengthens your enamel! It is possible to get too much fluoride, but it usually only causes spots on the teeth. Because of strict regulations, it’s hard to get too much fluoride from water or toothpaste.
Fluoride Treatments at Springhurst Hills Dentistry
You can get fluoride from your water supply (check your area to see if they put fluoride in the water), ADA-approved toothpaste, and at an appointment with Dr. Tran! Fluoride treatments are especially helpful for kids, but adults can get treatments, too. If you want to prevent cavities and even reverse early decay, fluoride is crucial! Please contact our Louisville office today if you have any questions about fluoride or are interested in a treatment!
Posted on behalf of Dr. Lan Tran, Springhurst Hills Dentistry
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