Fluoride is the mineral that enters our body through our daily intake of foods and water too. Apart from this, how it is essential for your teeth, is what we have discussed in this post.
Fluoride is a chemical ion of the element fluorine, which one of the top 20 abundant elements on earth. An ion is a positively- or negatively-charged atom that helps elements combine with one another. Fluorine is negatively charged. Therefore, when fluoride meets a positively-charged ion like sodium, it effectively aids in fighting cavities.
Hence, fluoride components present inside the mouth, not only makes the teeth stronger, but also keeps your oral cavity clean and hygienic.
So how does fluoride help combat cavities?
The outer covering of our teeth is the tooth enamel, which is even stronger than bones that are made from calcium! When we consume sugary foods like candies, juices etc. they turn acidic inside the mouth as bacteria is able to feast on the carbohydrates that are present in this food. This is responsible for producing the acid which attacks the teeth enamel, leaving the tooth susceptible to decay and cavities.
Since our saliva contains calcium and phosphate, it restores the elements to your teeth, thus protecting them. Here fluoride steps in. Entering the oral cavity from sources like eatables or the toothpaste, it combines with the calcium and phosphate forming fluoroapatite. This creates the best possible defense against cavity-causing bacteria inside your mouth.
Foods that Contain Fluoride Naturally
- Tea and coffee
- Water and in foods cooked in that water
- Foods like potatoes, grapes and shrimps
- fish eaten with their bones
- infant formula
This list would show you the common sources of dietary fluoride. Nevertheless, fluoride treatments become necessary, when optimal levels are not ingested and your teeth need that extra care! The ADA (American Dental Association) recommends a fluoride treatment at your dentist’s office every 3, 6 or 12 months depending upon the condition of your oral health. A dentist visit would therefore lend you information about the adequate levels of fluoride required for your teeth health.
What apart from toothpaste, natural foods and water can add fluoride to your teeth?
Professional fluoride treatments are provided by dentists in the form of:
- Highly Concentrated Rinse,
- Gels
- Varnishes or
- A Foam.
Ways to get fluoride for your teeth
To apply the treatment your dentist uses a tray, mouthwash, a swab or a brush. These treatments are availed because they have a much higher concentration of fluoride than that present in other natural sources or even your toothpaste! They take only a few minutes to apply, you are simply asked to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after the treatment and that’s it. The fluoride then gets fully absorbed. At home, one may use fluoride toothpaste that comes with an ADA seal. It ensures that your paste has the right amount of fluoride needed for your teeth.
Are you searching for a local dentist near you? We always encourage our patients to make an appointment at Arcade Dental to make sure their oral health is given the attention it deserves. Call us to book your dental appointment or visit our office at Pharr today.
