The Power of Fluoride: Why It’s Important for Your Oral Health

When it comes to oral health, there is no doubt that fluoride seems to be everywhere. From toothpastes and mouthwashes to potentially your community’s drinking water, it’s a key ingredient in ensuring your smile stays strong. Your dentist may even recommend a fluoride treatment after your routine cleaning!

While fluoride may be in your favorite toothpaste brand, you may be curious to know more about it. You may wonder what exactly fluoride is and why it’s so important, so continue reading to learn more about how it benefits your teeth!

What is Fluoride and Its Benefits?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in many places in nature, such as in fruits, vegetables, water, soil, and even the air. This mineral’s properties enable it to strengthen the hard outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel.

But how exactly does fluoride work on your smile? It does so through a process called remineralization! The bacteria in your mouth eat sugar in foods and produce acid that can slowly break down your teeth’s enamel. Unfortunately, enamel cannot grow back on its own, so fluoride helps replenish the lost minerals. Doing so allows your tooth to stay strong, and it can reverse the early signs of tooth decay and prevent cavities.

How Can I Get Plenty of Fluoride?

Thankfully, you don’t have to go around eating certain foods to get plenty of fluoride, as many oral health products contain it as an ingredient. An easy way to see if your toothpaste has this mineral is to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This handy sign is a great way to ensure that the product you choose is safe, effective, and has this key ingredient.

However, if you are at a higher risk of cavities, then your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment. This involves applying a gel with a high concentration of the mineral directly to your teeth. It takes just a few minutes, but the beneficial effects can last a while!

A great way to protect your teeth from cavities and harmful bacteria is to get plenty of fluoride. It’s essential to keep your smile in excellent shape, so be sure to take the steps you need to get enough of it!

About the Practice

At Harris Parkway Dental Care, we understand the importance of maintaining strong and healthy teeth. By ensuring you are free from any dental problems, you can continue to show off a wide grin. We achieve this with the help of regular cleanings and fluoride treatments, which provide an extra boost to fortify your enamel when needed. If it’s time for your next routine cleaning, schedule an appointment or call us at (817) 423-2223.