For young or old, fluoride is a great way to prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is a slow process that leaches the calcium out of the enamel until a hole, or soft spot, is created. Early in the process, fluoride can replace the lost calcium in the tooth’s enamel and make it harder, so the demineralization stops. Of course, once the soft spot develops, the tooth will require a restoration.
If I live in an area with fluoride in the water, do I still need fluoride toothpaste?
Yes. Even though there are some areas of the state where naturally occurring fluoride is above the recommended level, fluoride toothpaste is still needed for decay prevention. The unique fluoride used in drinking water only affects the developing tooth enamel in children. The fluoride actually deposits in the tooth enamel while it is still forming, creating harder and more decay resistant teeth for a life time. However, once the teeth have erupted into the mouth, the fluoride in the drinking water no longer continues to prevent tooth decay. That is why using a fluoride tooth paste or mouth rinse is so important.
For most people, over the counter toothpaste and fluoride rinse are adequate to prevent decay. (Incidentally, fluoride absorbs more readily into the tooth enamel from a rinse than from toothpaste.) For persons with a high decay rate, the elderly, or those who have had a lot of dental work, the over the counter strength may not be enough. For these people, prescription strength toothpaste and rinse are available through your dental office.
Is there anything else I can do to prevent tooth decay?
A very effective home remedy is a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent antimicrobial, and the baking soda not only cleans the teeth gently, but it also neutralizes the acid that causes tooth decay.
Will fluoride stain my teeth?
Fluorosis, or the brown spots that develop on the teeth from too much natural fluoride in the drinking water, is commonly seen in areas of West Texas. Although the teeth tend to be very decay resistant, they often have unsightly discolorations. “Deep Bleaching” is a new technique that will erase the discolorations and leave the teeth beautiful and white! For more information, give us a call at Advanced Dental Care. Dr. Dunn can help with all your cosmetic dentistry needs.
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