Fluoride is a mineral that is found in our bones and teeth. Apart from these, Fluoride is naturally found in water, soil, plants, air and rocks. Fluoride is very important to prevent cavities on teeth, as it strengthens enamel, which is the outer most layer of the tooth. Along with strengthening the enamel, Fluoride has also shown benefits with demineralizing or rebuilding the enamel, slow down the loss of minerals from tooth enamel, reverse early signs of tooth decay (cavity) and, also prevent the growth of harmful oral bacteria.
Fluoride is a mineral that is found in our bones and teeth. Apart from these, Fluoride is naturally found in water, soil, plants, air and rocks. Fluoride is very important to prevent cavities on teeth, as it strengthens enamel, which is the outer most layer of the tooth. Along with strengthening the enamel, Fluoride has also shown benefits with demineralizing or rebuilding the enamel, slow down the loss of minerals from tooth enamel, reverse early signs of tooth decay (cavity) and, also prevent the growth of harmful oral bacteria. The initial stage of decay is caused by acid corroding of mineral which is the first layer of the tooth, also seen as the white layer of the tooth. Fluoride stops the loss of the mineral content in the first layer and enhances remineralization or strengthening of the enamel and reversal of the early signs of tooth decay. Early usage of fluoride can prevent said tooth decay. Fluoridated toothpaste can be used on children as soon as the first tooth erupts into the mouth, which are generally the lower front two baby teeth. Infants to 3 years need only a grain sized amount of toothpaste, 3-6 years need no more than the size of a pea. Apart from toothpastes, mouth rinses and tap water also have fluoride. Community water fluoridation is also very beneficial in the prevention of tooth decay. Drinking filtered tap water allows you to consume fluoridated water. There are prescription fluoride toothpastes and mouth rinses available for patients where the disease is not controlled with over-the-counter toothpastes. Early diagnosis of tooth decay is very important, so your dentist can put you on a treatment or prevention program to ensure long term oral health. References: https://europepmc.org/article/med/7986451#:~:text=American%20Journal%20of%20Dentistry%2C%2001%20Oct%201994%2C%207(5)%3A271%2D274 https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/fluorosis