One of the minerals on the periodic table found in soil, water, and certain foods, fluoride will benefit your dental health. While fluoride treatments are often recommended for children to help them develop strong teeth, adults need this mineral just as much. Below, learn more about it, including why dentists recommend it and how you can get more.

What to Know About Fluoride

How It Benefits Oral Health

Tooth enamel—or the protective, white outer tooth shell that guards against sensitivity and cavities—deals with many agents that try to break it down. Acidic and sugary beverages and foods cause mouth bacteria to create enamel-dissolving plaque, leading to cavities. Loss of enamel also increases tooth sensitivity and discoloration because dentin (the underlying layer) is tender and yellow. 

Fluoride fights decay naturally. The mineral contributes to healthy enamel formation in pre-erupted children’s teeth to protect them from cavities. Plus, it supports remineralization in adult teeth. Once the enamel has completely worn away, this hard yet delicate protective shell cannot be restored. Fluoride provides continual remineralization to avoid enamel loss.

Where to Get Fluoride

Fortunately, it is found in most commercial toothpastes and mouth rinses. Also, check whether fluoride is in your municipal water supply, as water fluoridation is part of many community health programs to reduce decay and cavities in children and adults. 

Talk to your dentist about fluoride bonding treatments, which add protective layers to developing and adult teeth. Fluoride supplements are another option; however, they require a prescription and are typically recommended for young children that don’t have access to fluoridated water. 

Discuss fluoride treatments for your child with the dentists at Kid Smiles, a pediatric and general dentistry practice serving High Point, NC, and the surrounding areas. Offering flexible scheduling, including Saturday hours, these pediatric dentists also accept all insurance plans and offer a full suite of affordable dental services in Guilford County. Call (336) 885-5437 today to make an appointment, or visit them online for more information. Get additional oral hygiene and health tips on Facebook.