While there has been some controversy around fluoride, it remains an extremely valuable tool for promoting dental health when used properly. Like anything, excessive fluoride intake can potentially cause issues. However, following the recommendations set forth by the American Dental Association ensures you receive fluoride’s protective benefits without overdoing it. This blog aims to shed light on the numerous advantages fluoride can offer for maintaining good oral hygiene.
5 benefits of fluoride in your dental health
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 plays a crucial role in rebuilding the enamel, which is the outer protective layer of teeth. When this enamel erodes and weakens, it leaves teeth vulnerable to developing cavities. If these cavities are left unaddressed for an extended period, they can progress into more severe dental problems. Therefore, fluoride helps strengthen enamel as a preventative measure against cavities and their potentially serious and costly consequences.
2. Reduces tooth sensitivity
Incorporating fluoride into your dental routine through fluoridated toothpaste, mouthwashes, and professional fluoride treatments during dental visits can help alleviate tooth sensitivity. As the enamel erodes, the inner portions of the teeth become exposed, making them more susceptible to discomfort from consuming hot, cold, hard, or soft foods and beverages. Our website provides further insights on how to effectively manage and reduce tooth sensitivity by leveraging the protective benefits of fluoride.
3. Helps rebuild tooth enamel
Fluoride’s defensive capabilities extend beyond protecting the outer layer of the tooth – it can also aid in remineralizing areas where enamel has begun to erode due to excessive acid exposure. Have you ever had your dentist recommend incorporating a fluoride rinse upon detecting early signs of a cavity? This proactive measure harnesses fluoride’s restorative power to prevent further decay from occurring.
4. Resistant to acidity in the mouth
Our teeth are constantly exposed to highly acidic foods and beverages as part of our daily dietary habits. This is why incorporating fluoride into your oral care routine is crucial. Fluoride acts as a defensive shield, protecting your teeth from the relentless “acid attacks” they endure on a daily basis. Moreover, fluoride possesses the remarkable ability to facilitate the remineralization process, actively rebuilding and restoring areas of the enamel that have been broken down by acid erosion.
5. Reduces emergency dental visits
Fluoride’s ability to delay and prevent cavities will prevent you from having to make extra trips to the dental office outside of your recommended cleanings each year. When tooth decay does set in, it frequently requires restorative treatments like fillings, root canals, or extractions. However, by taking the proactive step of incorporating fluoride use into your oral hygiene routine, our hope is that you can avoid these extra appointments.
Benefits of using fluoride while wearing braces
At Jones Orthodontics, we strongly advocate for all our patients to incorporate a daily fluoride mouth rinse into their oral hygiene routine. Wearing braces presents additional challenges in maintaining strong, healthy teeth. The brackets and wires create nooks and crannies where sugary particles can easily become trapped, increasing the risk of cavities and enamel erosion. Diligent dental care, especially during orthodontic treatment, is imperative for preserving a healthy, beautiful smile. For more tips on how to care for your braces, click here.