Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, earth, and rocks. When applied to your teeth by a dentist, this substance strengthens protective enamel and staves off oral health problems like cavities. Find out exactly how it works – and why people of all ages benefit from fluoride treatments – below.

The Importance of Fluoride

Why Enamel Matters to Your Smile

The outer surfaces of your teeth are coated with enamel, a thin covering made of calcium and phosphate. The saliva in your mouth contains these minerals as well. When you ingest food, bacteria in your mouth feast on the particles in your mouth. They’re particularly attracted to sugars and carbohydrates, both of which are found abundantly in many foods. When these bacteria digest these goods, they release acids, which strip away calcium and phosphate, threatening the integrity of enamel.

How Fluoride Treatments Benefits Oral Health

Fluoride helps your body counteract the de-mineralization of enamel. If your saliva has fluoride in it, your teeth are better able to absorb calcium and phosphate. When all three of these minerals penetrate the enamel, they form fluoroapatite, an ultra-strong substance that’s even more resistant to decay.

This is why many toothpastes and mouthwashes have fluoride added to them. However, the most efficient and effective way to safeguard your smile with fluoride is through a professional application from the dentist. Your dentist can apply the substance via a gel, foam, or rinse.

Kids and adults both benefit from fluoride. Even if children don’t have their permanent teeth yet, it doesn’t mean that the health of their current teeth can be neglected. Preventing cavities and tooth loss at a young age is integral to a healthy adult smile. If baby teeth are lost prematurely due to decay, others may shift out of place and result in the need for orthodontics.

Safeguard your family’s smiles with an appointment for fluoride treatments at Wheeler Family Dental in Chesterfield, MO. These professionals offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere designed to make patients of all ages feel at ease. Their team is experienced at working with children and will ensure a pleasant experience. Visit their website for a full list of services, from teeth cleanings to dental implants. For a dentist appointment, call (314) 576-3737.