Fluoride FAQ

What is Fluoride and Why You Should Be Using It

For those who have glanced at the small print on their toothpaste tube, they may have noticed that one of the ingredients included is fluoride. While you may have heard this term being thrown around in the dentist office, such as a “fluoride rinse” or on commercials on television, it is likely that not many individuals know what fluoride is or what it does for their teeth. Here we will explore what fluoride is, how it impacts our dental health, as well as some other frequently asked questions.

Fluoride – What is it?

The simplest definition of fluoride is a substance that is a salt compound formed from minerals of the earth and an element called fluorine. While knowing what fluoride is made of is important, more important to know is what its chief application is. When we eat, bacteria that occurs naturally in the body begins to break down food and sugars while we chew – the bacteria converts the sugars into acid, which start the breakdown process of our teeth and, when left untreated, can lead to tooth decay.

Fluoride comes into play by being able to reverse and prevent the damage done by these acids. A fluoride rinse or the fluoride found in our toothpaste will create mineral deposits on the teeth that help to heal and repair the areas of the tooth that have already begun to erode due to the acids in the mouth. By brushing teeth consistently, it is possible to not only whisk some of the sugars and acids away from the teeth, but also continue to lay those mineral deposits to keep teeth protected.

How Much Fluoride Do I Need?

The amount of fluoride an individual needs will depend on their dental needs and a dentist can let them know how much is necessary. Generally, individuals who consume a normal amount of tap water and use toothpaste containing fluoride will receive a sufficient amount – municipalities began putting fluoride in tap water back in the 1940s, being noted as one of the greatest health achievements of the 20th century and the “single most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay.”

Even though many people do not know what fluoride is, it is easy to see how important it can be to their overall oral health. Making sure to drink enough tap water and using a toothpaste that contains fluoride – keeping in mind that most, if not all, do – it is possible to receive the amount of fluoride needed to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

If you need to schedule a visit with your dentist but have not done so because of a lack of insurance, consider signing up for the Wellness Dental Plan. Our coverage is an alternative to regular dental insurance and is offered in individual, business, and family discount dental plans. For more information, please click here.

*Photo Courtesy of Mike Mozart via Creative Commons License