Fluoride is the most popular mineral in dental care, but why is it so special? For starters, it’s an imperative part of preventing tooth decay. Read on to learn about the benefits of fluoride and different ways to use it in your dental hygiene routine.

Fluoride’s Role in Dental Care

Preserving your tooth enamel is an ongoing battle. Your enamel loses and gains minerals throughout the day depending on what foods and water you intake during a process called demineralization and remineralization. The problem arises when remineralization can’t keep up with the loss of minerals. Fluoride is an integral part of protecting enamel, preventing tooth decay, and promoting overall oral wellness.

Is Fluoride Dangerous for Children?

Fluoride is commonly stressed to be used in moderation, especially for children. However, this is not to say that fluoride is toxic for children. The CDC recommends children start using a small amount of children’s fluoride toothpaste when their teeth start coming in.

Here are specific recommendations for how much toothpaste to use for each age:

• Under 2 years old: Consult your dentist before introducing fluoride products
• 2-3 years old: No larger than the size of a grain of rice
• 3-8 years old: Small pea-sized amount

Parents and guardians must supervise their children to ensure they are not overusing or consuming this toothpaste. Prolonged overuse of fluoride can result in dental fluorosis. If you notice any change in your child’s teeth or have concerns, make sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Incorporating Fluoride

When combating mineral loss, there are a few ways to add fluoride to your dental care routine for optimal oral hygiene.

Consume Food and Water Containing Fluoride

In the 1960s, tap water began being supplemented with fluoride to introduce it to the population, and has remained in public water sources ever since.

Foods and beverages prepared with fluoridated water will be much higher in fluoride than those that aren’t. Consider using tap water or fluoridated bottled water when brewing your coffee, tea, and even your oatmeal to give your enamel a mineral boost.

Some foods naturally contain fluoride in then, including:

• Russet potatoes
• Shellfish
• Grapes, including wine and raisins
• Nuts, including almonds and cashews

Use Fluoride Toothpaste & Mouthwash

It is very likely that your toothpaste or mouthwash already contains fluoride, but if it doesn’t, this is an easy step to increase your remineralization. All toothpastes that have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance contain a safe and effective amount of fluoride.

Taking the time to double-check your current dental hygiene products is a quick and easy way to incorporate fluoride into your routine without disrupting your existing habits.

Topical Treatments

Topical fluoride treatments can be done in under two minutes at your local fluoride dentist. After thorough cleaning, each tooth will have gel or varnish applied with a small brush. You will be advised to wait a short period, typically around 30 minutes, before eating or drinking for the fluoride to absorb into your teeth.

Do you think a fluoride treatment is right for you? Schedule your initial consultation for a fluoride treatment in Columbus at Perimeter Dental Group to preserve and strengthen your smile.