Why Is Fluoride so Important to Teeth?

Have a look through the dental product section of your local grocery or convenience store, and you’ll probably see the word “fluoride” mentioned again and again. Maybe your dentist has also mentioned to you about choosing toothpaste that has fluoride in it, or maybe you’ve gotten fluoride treatment before at your appointment without even really knowing what it is. Here’s some more information about why fluoride is so important to teeth.

Fluoride 101

While its scientific-sounding name may make some people believe that fluoride is some chemical made up in a lab, it’s actually a mineral that’s present throughout nature. You can find fluoride in water, plants, and even rocks. Depending on what city you live in, the local government may even add fluoride to the public water supply.

Fluoride’s Powers

Because of its properties, fluoride is commonly used in dentistry to strengthen tooth enamel. This is because fluoride helps with a process called remineralization, which restores healthy minerals to the tooth. That, in turn, can help prevent cavities and the development of bad bacteria.

Getting Fluoride

Some people get all the fluoride they need from their water supply and the food they eat. Some people, however, need a bit more to keep their teeth healthy. That’s why you can find many dental practices, including our own, that offer fluoride treatment as one of their services. Fluoride treatment can be administered in a variety of different forms including a rinse or gel brushed onto the teeth’s surface. How much fluoride is actually in that treatment can depend on whether it’s being performed for an adult versus a child.

If you’re curious to know more about fluoride or you want to know if you could benefit from fluoride treatment, contact Springhurst Hills Dentistry today. Our friendly team is here to answer any of your questions and to help set you up with an appointment.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Lan Tran, Springhurst Hills Dentistry