FLUORIDE: FACTS & MYTHS

                                                                                    FLUORIDE: FACTS & MYTHS     Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been widely studied for its benefits in dental health. However, there are also several myths and misconceptions surrounding fluoride that have led to confusion and debate. In this blog post, we will explore some facts about fluoride, its positive effects on oral health, and address some common myths associated with it.Fact 1: Fluoride Prevents Tooth DecayOne of the most well-established facts about fluoride is its ability to prevent tooth decay. When fluoride is present in the mouth, it strengthens the enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria that cause cavities. Fluoride can also reverse early stages of tooth decay by remineralizing weakened enamel.Fact 2: Fluoride is Naturally Present in Water and FoodsContrary to some myths, fluoride is not a synthetic or artificial substance. It occurs naturally in water sources and is found in varying concentrations depending on geological factors. Many foods and beverages, including tea and seafood, also contain fluoride. Fluoride is simply a mineral that can be beneficial to oral health when consumed in appropriate amounts.Fact 3: Fluoridated Water is Safe and EffectiveWater fluoridation is a common public health measure adopted by many communities around the world. It involves adjusting the fluoride concentration in the water supply to an optimal level for preventing tooth decay. Decades of research have consistently shown that fluoridated water is safe and effective in reducing tooth decay rates without causing any adverse health effects when consumed within recommended limits.Fact 4: Fluoride is Safe for All Age GroupsThere is a common misconception that fluoride is only beneficial for children and may be harmful to adults. The truth is that fluoride benefits people of all ages. For children, it helps in the development of strong and healthy teeth. In adults, fluoride continues to protect teeth from decay. However, it’s important to use fluoride products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, in appropriate amounts and supervise children to avoid excessive ingestion.Myth 1: Fluoride Causes Health ProblemsOne of the most widespread myths about fluoride is that it causes various health problems, including cancer, kidney disease, and cognitive impairments. However, numerous scientific studies conducted over the years have consistently failed to establish any causal relationship between fluoride at recommended levels and these health concerns. Fluoride, when used as directed, is safe and does not pose significant health risks.Myth 2: Fluoride Harms IQ or Brain DevelopmentAnother common myth suggests that fluoride exposure can negatively impact IQ and brain development, particularly in children. However, the available scientific evidence does not support this claim. Several comprehensive reviews of the research literature have failed to find any consistent or credible association between fluoride exposure and reduced IQ or impaired brain function.Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a vital role in promoting good oral health. It helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening enamel and remineralizing weakened areas. Fluoridated water is a safe and effective public health measure, and fluoride products, such as toothpaste, provide additional protection. While some myths and misconceptions persist, extensive research has consistently demonstrated the safety and benefits of fluoride when used in appropriate amounts. By understanding the facts about fluoride, we can make informed decisions about our dental health and dispel unfounded concerns.                                                                                           Fluoride TreatmentFluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay.  It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies.  The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.Fluoride works in two ways:

• Topical fluoride strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay.  We gain topical fluoride by using fluoride containing dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels.  Dentists and dental hygienists generally recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.

 

• Fluoride varnish

   – Apply to children at-risk of tooth decay, beginning with the first tooth.– Apply 2-4 times/year for maximum benefit. Many providers apply varnish on the same schedule as childhood immunizations.

• Systemic fluoride strengthens the teeth that have erupted as well as those that are developing under the gums.  We gain systemic fluoride from most foods and our community water supplies.  It is also available as a supplement in drop or gel form and can be prescribed by your dentist or physician.  Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years.  It is very important to monitor the amounts of fluoride a child ingests.  If too much fluoride is consumed while the teeth are developing, a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) may result.

Although most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay.  Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons:

• Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
• Fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
• Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake.
• Inadequate exposure to fluorides.
• Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments or medications.
• Recent history of dental decay.

Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay!  It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.Many people know that fluoride is a common ingredient in toothpastes.  It is also available in some mouthwashes and gels.  What you may not know is that topical fluoride is also available as a professional dental treatment.A professional fluoride application differs from applying fluoride at home via toothpaste or mouthwash in some important ways.  This blog will highlight the benefits of fluoride and also the superior advantages of a professional fluoride application.FLUORIDE FIGHTS CAVITIES!Medical and dental professionals have known for decades that fluoride has the power to fight cavities.  The CDC calls fluoride “one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century”.  Consistent professional fluoride applications can drastically lower someone’s risk for cavities.Many patients find it frustrating to get new cavities every year.  By adding a professional fluoride application to their dental cleanings, they can reduce the chance of developing new cavities.FLUORIDE MAKES ENAMEL STRONGER!Fluoride causes your teeth to take up important minerals like calcium and phosphate, which strengthens the enamel.  Also, teeth incorporate fluoride into their complex structure, and the new structure (called fluoro-apatite) is more resistant to attacks from acid.Stronger enamel means fewer cavities, less acid erosion, and better teeth for the rest of your life!PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE APPLICATIONS PACK A PUNCH!A fluoride varnish contains a high concentration of fluoride, so it is a power boost of good vitamins for your teeth.  This high concentration is completely safe because the stickiness keeps it from being swallowed.  The higher concentration of fluoride contained in a varnish is more effective than other types of fluoride treatments at fighting cavities, as shown in scientific research.PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE APPLICATIONS STICK!The most common professional use of fluoride is a varnish, which is a very sticky substance that your dentist or dental hygienist paints onto the teeth.  The stickiness of a fluoride varnish offers several advantages.  It keeps the fluoride on the teeth where it belongs and prevents it from being swallowed.  It also keeps the fluoride in contact with the teeth for a longer period of time, increasing its effectiveness.PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE APPLICATIONS KEEP WORKING AND WORKING AND WORKING A fluoride varnish also has the advantage of sustained release.  Many brands show continuous fluoride release more than 24 hours after application.  This prolonged exposure to the teeth allows fluoride to have a greater effect at strengthening the enamel and fighting cavities.This is a huge advantage over the fluoride available in over-the-counter products like toothpastes and mouthwashes, as well as older forms of professional fluoride like gels or foams.  These modes of fluoride only “work” when they are in direct contact with the teeth.  This is why prior versions of professional fluoride applications involved your holding a styrofoam tray with gel or foam in your mouth for up to two minutes.  Fluoride varnish goes on in less than 20 seconds, and it stays on for hours!PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE APPLICATIONS FIGHT TEETH SENSITIVITY!We hear from many of our patients that their professional teeth cleanings are uncomfortable, even painful, due to teeth sensitivity.  They cringe at the thought of the cold air and water used by our dental hygienists during the procedure.A professional fluoride application can make your teeth cleanings much more comfortable!Fluoride varnish applications given on a consistent schedule show a scientifically proven improvement in teeth sensitivity.  If you are one of those patients who is uncomfortable during a teeth cleaning, ask your dental hygienist about a fluoride varnish application.  At Premier Dental of Ohio, our goal is for every single patient to be as comfortable as possible throughout any dental procedure!PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE APPLICATIONS PROTECT YOUR TEETH WHILE YOU ARE IN BRACES!Braces are wonderful for creating beautiful smiles!  They are also great at collecting plaque and bacteria, which is not a good thing.  It increases your risk for cavities, gum disease, and acid damage to the teeth.Professional fluoride applications lower the risk for cavities that comes with braces!Have you ever noticed people with small white spots or circles that look like an outline around a bracket?  Those white lines or spots are caused by acid in plaque that sits against the bracket.  Professional fluoride applications can prevent these!If you or a loved one are currently in braces, ask your dentist or dental hygienist about professional fluoride applications.  Consistent fluoride varnish treatments during orthodontic treatment lead to more beautiful smiles at the end of treatment.