Advantages of Fluoridation
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in most water supplies. In the early 20th century, Dr. Frederick S. McKay noticed a phenomenon in which children in certain regions of the country were developing remarkably resilient teeth. Decades of dental research led to the discovery that 1 part fluoride per million parts water resulted in a safe and effective way to strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay, and fluoride began to be added to public water supplies across the country. The CDC has called fluoridation one of the century’s top health advancements.
Tooth decay is caused by an acid produced by bacteria feeding off starchy or sugary residue left in the mouth after meals or snacks. The acid wears down the enamel on the teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay. Fluoride helps to re-mineralize teeth and prevent tooth decay.
Although fluoridation of the public water supplies is a cost-effective way to reduce dental decay by as much as 25%, not all communities add fluoride to their water. Residents of communities with non-fluoridated water supplies or who drink bottled water can enjoy the protective benefits of fluoride through fluoridated toothpastes and mouth rinses, professional fluoride gel or varnish applications, and prescription strength fluoride supplements. Dr. Shindler, Westlake Village dentist, can help you determine whether or not you are at high risk of tooth decay.
Fluoride is not a magic bullet against cavities. It works best when combined with brushing after meals, daily flossing, and regular dental checkups. If you are interested in learning more about fluoride or believe you may be at high risk for cavities, make an appointment with Dr. Shindler, Westlake Village cosmetic dentist, today.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
Back to Blog
Tooth decay is caused by an acid produced by bacteria feeding off starchy or sugary residue left in the mouth after meals or snacks. The acid wears down the enamel on the teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay. Fluoride helps to re-mineralize teeth and prevent tooth decay.
Although fluoridation of the public water supplies is a cost-effective way to reduce dental decay by as much as 25%, not all communities add fluoride to their water. Residents of communities with non-fluoridated water supplies or who drink bottled water can enjoy the protective benefits of fluoride through fluoridated toothpastes and mouth rinses, professional fluoride gel or varnish applications, and prescription strength fluoride supplements. Dr. Shindler, Westlake Village dentist, can help you determine whether or not you are at high risk of tooth decay.
Fluoride is not a magic bullet against cavities. It works best when combined with brushing after meals, daily flossing, and regular dental checkups. If you are interested in learning more about fluoride or believe you may be at high risk for cavities, make an appointment with Dr. Shindler, Westlake Village cosmetic dentist, today.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
Back to Blog