What is Fluoride and Why Do We Need it?
Fluoride is an abundant mineral that is found naturally in various places all over the world. Not only does it exist in the water that runs out of your faucet, but it is also present in foods such as spinach, grapes, and potatoes. At some point in your life you have probably heard that fluoride is good for your teeth, but in what ways is it beneficial?
Fluoride works to protect and repair teeth by preventing the effects of tooth decay caused by demineralization and restoring the enamel of teeth through remineralization.
Demineralization: Tooth enamel is a highly mineralized substance, meaning that the majority of it is composed of inorganic minerals. Demineralization occurs when acids are introduced to or develop in the mouth and dissolve the essential minerals in tooth enamel, such as calcium. This erodes the enamel and makes teeth more susceptible to cavities and decay. Acids can be present in the mouth simply as a result of consuming acidic foods, and acids are also produced when the sugars in the foods we eat combine with bacteria in the mouth. Fluoride works to prevent demineralization by reducing the bacteria’s ability to produce this harmful acid that damages tooth enamel.
Remineralization: If demineralization has already occurred, fluoride will protect teeth using the remineralization process, in which the fluoride will gather in the damaged areas of the teeth and begin to strengthen the enamel. Patients who are trying to remineralize their teeth should avoid acidic and sugary foods and, instead, consume calcium-rich foods like milk, lean meats, and vegetables, in addition to using fluoride on their teeth.
How to Get Fluoride
Besides water and food, there are other ways to get the necessary amount of fluoride to ensure your teeth are protected from cavities and tooth decay. Fluoride is also present in toothpaste, mouthwash, and in supplemental form. Professional fluoride treatments are also available for patients who are especially in need of them. No matter how you get your fluoride intake, it is important to never consume more than 1.00 ppm (parts per million) of fluoride per day.
Fluorosis
Fluorosis can develop if you consume more than 1.00 ppm of fluoride per day. This dental condition can leave white spots, brown stains, or rough and pitted enamel on the teeth. Although this condition usually occurs in children who are developing their permanent teeth, it can occur in adults as well. To reduce the chances of fluorosis developing on your teeth, be sure check the amount of fluoride that your water contains if you begin taking a fluoride prescription and be sure not to use excess amounts of toothpaste when brushing your teeth.
If you are interested in improving the appearance of your teeth and attaining a more attractive smile, please feel free to call (310) 273-0111 today. Dr. Sands has helped many individuals improve the appearance of their teeth and looks forward to helping you do the same.