At some point in time, we’ve all heard that something called fluoride is good for our teeth. However, many aren’t really sure what fluoride is and why it’s so important for our dental health. Keep reading to learn more about fluoride and the impact it can have on your smile!
What Is Fluoride?
Our tooth enamel is extremely hard but it’s in a constant ebb and flow of gaining and losing minerals. Enamel needs something to help stabilize and remineralize to keep decay from setting in. That’s where fluoride comes in. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has the capability to regenerate and remineralize tooth enamel.
Why Is Fluoride Important?
Fluoride safeguards our smiles by making our teeth more resistant to acid attacks, sugars, and bad bacteria. Fluoride boosts remineralization and can even reverse some early signs of decay! Fluoride is an essential mineral for adults and kids alike. Fluoride helps protect permanent teeth both before they erupt to the surface and after they have completely come in. It can also help neutralize saliva, which contributes to preventing dry mouth and gum disease.
What Products Have Fluoride?
Getting enough fluoride is important for maintaining great oral health. When choosing toothpaste and mouthwash, make sure you’re picking products that have fluoride in them. Fluoride is put in almost all community water supplies. You can stay hydrated and strengthen your teeth at the same time—pretty cool! If you mainly drink bottled water or use water from a well, you may not be getting the proper amount of fluoride. Talk to Dr. Metwally at your next visit and he can give you a quick fluoride treatment if necessary.
Cavity Prevention in Raleigh, NC
Another important cavity prevention tool is a twice yearly oral examination and professional hygiene cleaning. Are you overdue for your next dental checkup? No worries! Now is the perfect time to get your cleaning and maybe even a fluoride treatment on the calendar. Contact Northside Dental to schedule yours today.