Fluoride and your teeth

Fluoride and your teeth

 

Tooth decay is still quite prevalent in our society, but can be greatly reduced by incorporating Fluoride into our every-day lives.

Fluoride has come under scrutiny from some groups asserting its danger and links to various diseases and disorders.  How true are these and what exactly is Fluoride’s role in tooth protection?

  • Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that’s found in rocks, soil, vegetables, grains, fresh and salt water.
  • It has been found that people ingesting Fluoride in certain concentrations are less prone to developing cavities in their teeth. It strengthens the enamel, resisting bacterial acid attack which may lead to weakened teeth and cavities
  • As most natural sources don’t reach the desired Fluoride content, since the 1960’s it has been added to the water supply in many regions of Australia, as well as toothpastes, gels and other dental products.
  • Research shows that kids who grew up with fluoridated water have a much lower tooth decay rate than those without fluoridated water supply.
  • The rate of Cavities has risen again since the introduction of various  filters and bottled water, most of which filter out Fluoride.
  • People who are more prone to cavities are often recommended additional Fluoride, such as Fluoride-concentrated toothpastes and gels that can be applied to teeth by the dentist.
  • Extensive medical and dental research has been carried out over the last 2-3 decades, failing to show any correlation between added Fluoride in water and any illnesses, such as Alzheimers, cancers, autism to name a few that are mentioned by some groups.
  • The level of Fluoride added to our tap water is completely safe and can be consumed in a reasonable daily quantity. If you don’t like tap water it can be boiled to remove some impurities without removing Fluoride. Some dentally-approved water filters also leave Fluoride in the water.
  • As with anything else, moderation is crucial! For example kids that ingest too much Fluoride when little may form yellow/brown flecks on their adult teeth. This often happens when kids brush with, and swallow adult toothpaste.

 

Don’t forget that levels of supplemented Fluoride should be carefully controlled. Please check with your dentist prior to adding Fluoride gels, tablets or concentrated toothpastes to your everyday routine.