Utilizing fluoride for your dental health is extremely beneficial, despite some of the negativity surrounding this topic. Like many things, using too much fluoride can result in some health concerns. However, if used as directed by the American Dental Association (ADA), you can reap many benefits. In this blog we hope to educate you on the many benefits fluoride can provide your oral health.
Benefits of using fluoride
The benefits of fluoride have been proven through decades of research and endorsed by major health organizations like the ADA, CDC, and WHO. Below are five reasons we recommend using fluoride.
1. Prevents tooth decay
Fluoride helps strengthen and re-mineralize the outer enamel layer of teeth. When this layer is broken down and becomes weak, cavities are likely to occur. If left untreated for too long, these cavities can result in more serious issues that may require a root canal, or extraction.
2. Rebuilds the enamel of your tooth
Not only does fluoride help protect the outer surface of your teeth, but it also helps rebuild enamel once broken down by exposure to too much acid. Has your dentist every recommended using a fluoride rinse when they see the start of a cavity? This is because it can help prevent the decay from worsening.
3. Reduces tooth sensitivity
Using fluoride products like fluoridated toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professional fluoride treatments at dental visits will reduce tooth sensitivity. When your enamel is broken down, the more sensitive your teeth are to different things that you eat and drink, (hot/cold) (hard/soft). Learn more about how to combat tooth sensitivity by visiting our website.
4. Resistant to acidity in the mouth
Everyday our teeth are exposed to high acidic foods and drinks we consume – it’s inevitable! This is why utilizing fluoride for your dental health is so important. Fluoride helps protect your teeth from the “acid battle” your teeth face daily. Then, it aids in rebuilding the parts of the enamel that are broken down.
5. Less unnecessary visits to the dentist office
Preventing cavities and tooth decay reduces the need for additional dental visits beyond the recommended twice-yearly cleanings and check-ups. When tooth decay does occur, it often requires restorative procedures like fillings, root canals, or extractions – which involve more frequent dental appointments. By taking the preventive step of incorporating fluoride use, you may avoid many of these decay-related procedures and their associated expenses.
Benefits of using fluoride while wearing braces
At Freytag Orthodontics, we encourage all of our patients to use a fluoride mouth rinse daily. Wearing braces makes it even harder to keep teeth strong and healthy. Why? Because sugars can easily get trapped around brackets and wires, resulting in more cavities and a weakened enamel. Taking care of your teeth, especially while wearing braces, is crucial to the overall health of your smile. To learn more tips on how to care for your braces, click here.