Fluoride Treatment - Prevent Tooth Decays and Cavities

A look at fluoride pros and cons and answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

In the fight against cavities and tooth decay, many of us are encouraged to increase our intake of fluoride.

In fact, fluoride treatments seem to more to strengthen the teeth and fight tooth decay than anything else. Most name brand tooth pastes contain fluoride as well as most mouth rinses. However, the public does not seem convinced. The use of fluoride treatments has come under some controversy in recent years due to its toxicity. In this article we will look closely at fluoride treatments and attempt to answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

First of all, fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. It occurs naturally in water in many foods. Fluoride is important in the fight against tooth decay because it helps with what is known as the remineralization process. The process of demineralization and remineralization occur every day. Demineralization is where minerals are taken away and remineralization is where they are restores. As long as minerals are replaced faster that they are taken away then there will be no tooth decay. However, if minerals are lost and not replaced then cavities and tooth decay start to occur. Fluoride treatments help to restore the minerals to the teeth. They help harden the enamel so tooth decay won’t occur.

Many adults wonder at what age fluoride treatments should begin? Typically the younger the better. Children should be exposed to fluoride at an early age. Between 6 months and 16 years are when it is most effective. This is when the primary and permanent teeth come in. Fluoride treatments are also useful for adults. Adults that use fluoride tooth pastes and rinses have fewer incidences of cavities and tooth decay then those who use regular tooth pastes. Those with a history of tooth decay or naturally soft teeth could also benefit from fluoride treatments.

Many wonder what the risks are of using fluoride? The truth is that there are some risks associates with fluoride treatments. Fluoride itself is safe, however too much of a good thing can be harmful. It can be toxic if someone takes too much. The toxicity level will depend on the person’s weight. When using fluoride it is important that you follow instructions and use as directed. Keep all fluoride supplements away from children.

Fluoride can also cause some minor problems if used too frequently. It can stain the enamel if not used correctly. One may notice white streaks or if they really over use it brown spots.

If you have fluoride in your water and use toothpaste with fluoride then this can occur. Best to have the fluoride content in your water checked especially if it comes from a well.

Some adults also fear that if they drink bottles water that they will be missing out on the benefits of fluoride treatments. Most who drink bottled water have no further incidences of tooth decay that those who drink water from their taps. Most bottled waters available do contain a good level of fluoride. Check the labels on the water to make sure. You don’t want clean living to affect your oral health.

Some adults also want to know of there are alternatives to fluoride for tooth strengthening. The answer is yes. There are a few things that you could try but they may not be quite as effective. Chewing gum is helpful in the remineralization process. As long as the gum is sugarless it can actually help reduce the effects of bacteria. Gum helps increase the natural flow of saliva. Our own saliva helps to reduce bacteria and aid in the remineralization process. Foods that are high in fiber also do the same thing. For those that don’t want the risks of fluoride these present the most viable options.

Reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth is another way to get around using fluoride. Eating foods rich in Vitamin C, D and essential oil fight bacteria and strengthen teeth and gums. Using Echinacea and tea tree oil are also useful in this as well.

Fluoride treatments are very useful in the fight against tooth decay. It helps to keep the essential minerals on the tooth enamel so plaque and bacteria cannot attack it. The best time to start using Fluoride is when children are young. However, many adults worry about the risks of toxicity. Fluoride does have its own risks but they are minimal. There are however, natural alternatives to fluoride treatments people can use if the worry about side effects is too great.

Fluoride is a natural mineral and it can be useful in fighting toot decay of used properly. IT strengthens the teeth and helps to keep the dentists drill away.

Fluoride Treatment - Fight Tooth Decays and Cavities