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Fluoride is a natural mineral found in freshwater and seawater. It has been recognized as safe and effective to tackle tooth decay in adults and children by the American Dental Association. So how exactly does Fluoride help our oral health?

How Does Fluoride Help?

Our mouth consists of a number of bacteria. Acid is formed when bacteria mix with food remaining in the mouth. This acid causes enamel and dentin (the inner layer of enamel) to break and lose their minerals. This process is known as Demineralization.

Fluoride being a natural mineral helps to remineralize tooth enamel.

Fluoride for Children

Did you know tooth decay remains the number one chronic disease in America? Dental cavities affect children five times more than asthma does. Well, the good news is tooth decay is a preventable disease. 

Children consume a lot of sugary items and beverages. Fluoride helps by protecting the enamel and resisting tooth decay. It is advised that parents supervise kids when they brush their teeth.  

It is important to monitor the amount of fluoride toothpaste used by children. For toddlers aged below 3 years, a rice-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste should be used; pea size for children aged 3 to 5. This also helps to strengthen the development of permanent teeth. 

Benefits of Fluoride 

Rebuild Tooth Enamel

Improper dental hygiene or high sugar diet causes the enamel to erode. Using fluoride toothpaste helps repair enamel damage. This process is called Remineralization.

Prevents Tooth Decay

Bacteria in the mouth mix with leftover food particles to produce acid. This acid erodes the enamel and if left untreated causes tooth decay or cavities. Fluoride helps to fight cavities by adding an extra coat of protection.

Keeps Teeth Strong

Tooth enamel is made of phosphate and calcium. Fluoride binds with calcium to form a defense system against cavities.

Prevents Costly Dental Expenditures

Cavities left unattended could lead to dental infection. Expensive dental surgeries can be avoided with timely fluoride treatment. Book an appointment with Courtyard Dental to learn more about fluoride treatment.

Sources of Fluoride

• Self-applied topical fluorides such as toothpaste, gels, and mouthwash
• Professionally applied fluoride treatment carried out by a dentist. This includes foams and fluoride varnishes.
• Fluoridated water provided by a number of communities in the United States
• Through fluoride supplements and food rich in fluoride

For more tips on the benefits of Fluoride and effective dental care, visit Courtyard Dental at 2410 San Ramon Valley Blvd Ste 148, San Ramon, CA 94583. Call (925) 855-1604 to schedule an appointment.