Facts About Fluoride, Your Teeth’s Miracle Mineral

We all want a beautiful smile! In fact, many of us go so far to achieve a sensational smile that we brush religiously, participate in the latest teeth whitening treatments, and consider undergoing cosmetic dentistry. However, keeping a mouth healthy is essential in our quest for a winning grin - and fluoride is a key factor for fantastic teeth. Our Fort Lee teeth whitening experts discuss the importance of fluoride for children and adults. 

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in many foods and in water, giving you yet another reason to drink those recommended eight glasses a day. When fluoride is ingested, it becomes part of the structure of newly forming teeth. This is why doctors and dentists emphasize the importance of fluoride for children under six; it’s what helps children develop strong, healthy permanent teeth.

But fluoride isn’t just for kids, it’s also essential in protecting adult teeth from decay. On a daily basis, teeth go through a process known as demineralization and remineralization. During this process healthy minerals are lost and then added back into the enamel layer of the tooth. When this rhythm is off-balance and teeth are losing more minerals than they are taking in, plaque and tooth decay result. Fluoride actually inhibits the demineralization process, preventing the bacteria that are found in plaque from eroding tooth enamel.

Fluoride also prevents cavities. Fluoride can help our teeth repair themselves by triggering the remineralization process. It won’t fix cavities that have already developed, but it will help prevent new cavities from forming.

So make sure to get your fill of fluoride! You’ll find this mineral in natural food sources, and you can also brush and rinse with fluoridated toothpastes and mouthwashes. Finally, during your routine cleaning, your dentist can provide an in-office fluoride treatment in the form of foam, gel, or varnish. Set up an appointment at our Fort Lee cosmetic dentistry practice; contact Anderson Dental today.