To Flouride or not to Flouride,

That is the Question.

Let’s get behind the science of fluoride to better understand how it works and why fluoride is important to the health of your child’s teeth.

How Fluoride Works
Acids from plaque cause the loss of minerals from the tooth (a process called demineralization), resulting in tooth decay. The formation of small cavities, or carious lesions, can be reversed by remineralization–that is, the deposition of minerals into previously damaged areas of the tooth. Topical fluoride, when applied frequently in low concentrations, increases both the rate of growth and the size of enamel crystals. The accelerated growth of enamel crystals within the demineralized lesion initiates the remineralization of the tooth. Also, the larger crystals are less prone to future attacks from the acids.

There are several mechanisms by which fluoride achieves its cavity-preventing effect. It reduces the solubility of enamel in acid by converting hydroxyapatite into less soluble fluorapatite; it may exert an influence directly on dental plaque, reducing the ability of plaque organisms to produce acid; and it promotes the remineralization of tooth enamel in areas that have been decalcified by acids. Fluoride works by a combination of these effects. But the remineralization effect of fluoride is of prime importance because it results in a reversal of the early caries process and it gives rise to an enamel surface that is more resistant to decay.

Systemic Fluoride
Ingested fluoride is absorbed mainly through the stomach and intestine into the bloodstream, which helps to strengthen teeth while they are growing. The fluoride is carried to developing tooth buds, where the interaction with the developing crystals initiates the replacement of hydroxyapatite (the tooth enamel’s normal crystalline composition) with fluorapatite (a related crystal that incorporates fluoride). Fluorapatite is more resistant to decay than hydroxyapatite. While it is beneficial to give older kids, with permanent teeth, supplemental fluoride, it is also important to give your little ones oral fluoride, it will strengthen the permanent teeth while they are developing so that can come in stronger and more resistant to decay.

Where Fluoride Comes From
Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that prevents tooth decay when ingested systemically or applied to teeth topically. The fluoride ion comes from the element fluorine. Fluorine is the 13th most abundant element in the earth’s crust but never encountered in its free state in nature. It exists only in combination with other elements as a fluoride compound. It is found in this form as a constituent of minerals in rocks and soil everywhere. Water passes over rock formations containing fluoride and dissolves these compounds, creating fluoride ions. The result is that small amounts of soluble fluoride ions are present in all water sources, including the oceans. Fluoride is present to some extent in all foods and beverages, but the concentrations vary widely. All water contains some fluoride naturally. Water fluoridation is the process of adjusting the fluoride content of water to the recommended level for optimal dental health. In the U.S., the optimum concentration of fluoride in the water has been established in the range of 0.7 to 1.2 parts per million (ppm). The specific optimum for a locality is dependent on the average annual temperature for the region.

But is Fluoride Actually Safe?
Not all of the concerns about fluoride are incorrect. There are a few risks associated with fluoride, but if it’s administered by a dentist, and at-home products are monitored by mom or dad, the risks are basically non-existent. Fluoride can be hazardous if used too much. However, it’s extremely difficult to reach this level with fluoridated water, treatments by a pediatric dentist, and at-home products. Just remember not to allow your child to swallow any toothpaste or rinse, no matter how good it tastes.

Furthermore, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fluoride is safe and works to prevent tooth decay.

Ways to Get Supplemental Fluoride

• Fluoridated toothpastes and mouthwashes
• Fluoride varnish, foam, or gel, applied during a routine cleaning
• Prescription-level toothpastes and mouthwashes
• Chewable prescription supplements
• Fluoridated bottled water
• Fluoridated tap water (here in Eugene, Oregon, our tap water is not fluoridated.)

If your little one is due for a checkup or hasn’t received a preventive fluoride treatment, give us a call or click here to schedule an appointment. We’d love the chance to get to know your child and give her a healthy smile!

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