Unmasking the Truth: Separating Fact from Fiction About Fluoride

Fluoride has become one of the most important mineral components of our lives. It is known to prevent tooth decay by strengthening the tooth’s enamel making it more resistant to cavities. Therefore, if your teeth are prone to cavities, you should visit the preventive dentistry in Flower Mound, TX, for fluoride treatment. Unfortunately, despite the many benefits of fluoride, many misconceptions surround it. Fortunately, we’re here to separate fact from fiction about fluoride. So, let’s get into it.

How Fluoride Works to Protect Teeth and Prevent Decay

Tooth cavities are caused by bacteria that lead to the erosion of the tooth’s enamel. The bacteria feed on food debris left stuck between your teeth. Unfortunately, most of the food debris that bacteria feed on has lots of sugar, leading to the production of acids that erode the enamel. Gradually, the enamel is destroyed, which leads to tooth decay.

When you visit the dentist in Flower, Mound, TX, for fluoride treatment, the mineral can reverse the effects of tooth decay. How? This mineral works during the remineralization and demineralization that occurs naturally in your mouth. Demineralization is caused by bacteria in your teeth that cause cavities.

Fluoride will help control the damage caused by the demineralization process making the teeth fight against the adverse effects of the process. Furthermore, fluoride restores phosphate and calcium ions that make your teeth harder. This is what is known as remineralization. In short, fluoride works by restoring lost minerals in your teeth and strengthening them to prevent decay.

Recommended Levels of Fluoride for Different Age Groups

Before we list the recommended levels of fluoride for different age groups, it is essential to know that optimal fluoride intake comes from water, supplement, and food. Some of the common sources of dietary fluoride include:

• Fish are consumed with their bones.
• Food cooked in water.
• Infant formula.
• Water.
• Tea

Here are the recommended levels of daily adequate intake of fluoride:

• From birth to 6 months, 0.01mg.
• 7-12 months- 0.5mg.
• 1-3 years- 0.7 mg.
• 4-8 years-1mg.
• 9-13 years-2mg.
• 14-18 years-3mg.
• 19 and above- 4mg.

Common Misconceptions About Fluoride

Now that you know how fluoride works to protect your teeth and prevent teeth, the next step is separating the facts and misconceptions about fluoride.

Misconception- fluoride is harmful to kids. The fact is fluoride is not harmful to kids if it is used as intended. Letting your child drink fluoridated water helps strengthen their teeth and prevent future tooth loss and decay.

Misconception- you don’t need fluoride to clean or whiten your teeth. The reason why most toothpastes contain fluoride is to make teeth more resistant to decay. So, you might not need fluoride to clean or whiten your teeth, but it helps to keep tooth cavities at bay. However, if you choose to use toothpaste that does not contain fluoride, you’ll have to be stricter with your diet. This means reducing the intake of processed foods and added sugar.

Myth- you can get excess fluoride from using fluoridated toothpaste. There is ongoing debate about whether fluoride in toothpaste is safe for use or too much. Excess fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis. So, if you need clarification on whether your toothpaste has the correct amount of fluoride, you should consult the dentist near you.

Myth: drinking fluoridated water will cause cancer- multiple studies show that fluoride does not increase the risk of cancer or other problems like heart disease or diabetes.

Having some of the common myths and misconceptions of fluoride, what are the benefits of this mineral?

• Prevents the growth of bacteria that leads to cavities.
• Slows down the process of demineralization.
• Reverses the effects of tooth decay if used at the early stages.
• Remineralizes the tooth enamel.
• Saves you money in the long run.
• Provides a natural method of preventing cavities and tooth decay.

There are several misconceptions that surround fluoride. After reading this article, you’ll be able to decide what to believe and discard. Nevertheless, this mineral has many benefits. Furthermore, you can head to Smile Craft Dental for a fluoride treatment to fortify your teeth.