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Why is fluoride used in dentistry?
Fluoride is a key factor in preventive dental
care for people of all ages. In fact, inadequate
exposure to fluoride places children and adults
in the high risk category for dental decay. |
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1. |
It acts on the tooth making the enamel
harder and thus more resistant to acid. |
| 2. |
It acts on the plaque, reducing its
ability to make acid. |
| 3. |
It promotes repair of tooth enamel |
In what forms is fluoride available
to us?
1. Topical fluorides include toothpastes, mouthrinses
and professionally applied fluoride gels and rinses
which provide local protection on the tooth surface,
making them more decay-resistant.
2. Systemic fluorides are available
in the form tablets, drops or lozenges, fluoride present
in food and beverages, and in some countries in the
water. They are ingested into the body and become incorporated
in the tooth structure. If ingested regularly when teeth
are developing, systemic fluorides are deposited throughout
the entire surface and provide longer-lasting protection
than topical fluorides.
Systemic fluorides can also give topical
protection, as they remain present in saliva thus continually
bathing the teeth. This provides a constant source of
fluoride that can get incorporated into the tooth surface
and helps to prevent decay.
Is fluoride effective for decreasing
decay in adults?
Definitely. Fluoride plays a protective role against
dental decay throughout life, benefiting both children
and adults. In fact, fluoride treatments are more important
for adults because fluoride in the water does not benefit
teeth after they are formed.
Root surface cavities occur more frequently
in adults than children. As a person ages, the best
preventive treatment is plenty of fluoride toothpaste
used for at least 2-3 minute brushing sessions, 2-3
times daily and fluoride treatments at preventive dental
checkups.
Should my child be taking supplemental
fluoride?
If your water supply is fluoridated, then you do
not require supplemental fluoride for your child. However,
if you live in an area where the water is non-fluoridated
(well-water), then supplemental fluoride may be prescribed.
Consult your dentist or physician for further details.
Is taking too much fluoride bad
for me or my teeth?
Yes. Fluoride if consumed in concentrations greater
than 1 PPM (part per million), for extended periods
of time, can result in “Fluorosis”. This results
in deformations of the tooth enamel ranging from white
spots, bands and brown pits making the tooth appear
"mottled" |
