Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in bones and teeth. It can also be found in rocks, which release it into the soil, water, and air. Fluoride is used in dentistry to strengthen the enamel, which is the protective outer layer of teeth. This makes them better at fighting tooth decay. Small amounts of fluoride are added to sources of public drinking water in many countries, including the United States. The primary reason for this is to improve the dental health of the general public. Many people think this is a bad thing, but fluoride is actually keeping costly dental issues at bay. Read on to learn more about four ways that fluoride in drinking water benefits your community.
#1: Fluoride Prevents Tooth Decay
Fluoride is so effective at protecting your teeth from cavities that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) listed it among the ten great public health achievements of the 20th century. A little bit of fluoride goes a long way and is the most effective method of protecting your teeth from decay. Studies on its efficacy have shown that fluoride in drinking water prevents at least 25% of dental decay in both children and adults.
#2: Fluoride is Safe for Your Smile
Fluoride research started in 1901 when Frederick McKay, a young dental school graduate, went to Colorado Springs to open a dental practice. Since then, countless hours of research have scientifically proven that adding fluoride to community water supplies is both safe and effective at lessening tooth decay. Fluoride has been endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Surgeon Generals, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and many other reputable people and organizations.
#3: Fluoride Saves You Money
For every $1.00 that is invested in putting fluoride in drinking water, $38.00 is saved in dental treatment costs. This means that simply drinking water that contains fluoride can save you money on having to have cavities treated at your dentist’s office.
#4: Fluoride Is Natural
Though fluoride is naturally found in both ocean water and groundwater, adjusting the levels allows us to ensure that there is enough of this mineral to help prevent cavities. This process is comparable to fortifying foods with different vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to the community.
As you can see, there are many ways that fluoride benefits your pearly whites as well as the smiles of everyone in your community. By making sure you get enough fluoride through your drinking water and oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash, you can keep your smile healthy, strong, and as lovely as ever!
About the Author
Are you looking for a dependable dentist in the Dallas area to help you keep your smile healthy? You’ve come to the right place! At Distinctive Dentistry, the talented team can administer the care you need to maintain exceptional oral health. They take pride in helping patients of all ages protect their pearly whites and maintain gorgeous grins they can be proud of. Visit Distinctive Dentistry’s website or call their office at (770) 445-6606 if you want to learn more or are interested in scheduling an appointment.
