Your teeth are supposed to last for a lifetime, but 120 million people are living with tooth loss. Cavities are a leading cause of missing teeth, which affects 92% of adults. Although brushing and flossing are effective at keeping decay at bay, fluoride is equally important for strong and healthy teeth. Here’s how you can harness the power of nature’s cavity fighter to combat tooth decay.
Fluoride Fights Cavities
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found all around you, from the soil you stand on to the air you breathe. It is also added to dental products and public water systems because it is proven to reduce tooth decay. It has been added to community water sources for over 75 years.
Fluoride was introduced into public water in the 1960s. Dental professionals quickly noted a decline in cavities. Researchers have found that drinking tap water that contains fluoride can prevent tooth decay by 25%. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has listed water fluoridation as 1 of the top 10 public health achievements of the 20th century.
Fluoride is recommended by almost all medical, dental, and public health organizations, like the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the US Public Health Service.
Support a Cavity-Free Smile
Although fluoride is a powerful cavity fighter, it isn’t a substitute for good oral hygiene or a healthy diet. Your teeth are constantly under attack by cavity-causing bacteria. Brushing removes food residue and plaque that feed bacteria. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes. It’s also important to floss daily to clean areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
Besides keeping your mouth clean, limit your consumption of sugars and starches, which combine with bacteria to create an acidic plaque that can erode your enamel. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated to keep your mouth moist. Every sip will also help keep your mouth clean in between brushing and flossing.
Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll remove any buildup left behind from brushing and flossing to keep your teeth and gums healthy. They will also examine your mouth to detect the smallest areas of weakened enamel to intervene quickly. Your dentist may also recommend additional preventive services, like fluoride varnish.
With the proven power of fluoride and the correct dental habits, you can prevent tooth loss by maintaining a cavity-free smile.
About Dr. Nancy Nguyen
Dr. Nguyen achieved her dental degree from Texas A&M School of Dentistry and has regularly continued her education in many specialties, like sedation dentistry, Invisalign, and dental implants. She is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call (972) 433-7270.