Every dental hygiene product on the market today is sure to tout is claim to fame, “Contains Fluoride”, and while many of us know that fluoride is an important part of our dental health, most of us have no idea how or why. While it is important that you get enough fluoride in your diet, it’s equally important to understand how it benefits you and what role it plays in your dental health. Additionally you should know where you can get fluoride in your diet and dental hygiene products and how it will make a difference.
Does Fluoride Help Prevent Tooth Decay?
It all starts with the hard coating of enamel we have over our teeth. This coating protects against sensitivity and acidic foods by providing a resilient surface over the more sensitive dentin and pulp within our teeth. While durable it is susceptible to decay through demineralization caused by plaque and other sources, fluoride helps to rebuild it with an even more durable and long-lasting coating. Fluoride not only helps prevent tooth decay, but can help repair it in its earliest stages.
What Are Some Good Sources Of Fluoride?
The good news is if you live in just about any city in the United States and have a residence that’s on city water, you’re already getting a good starter dose of Fluoride. If you’re looking for natural dietary sources of fluoride you have some options available, in addition to the supplements and hygiene products you can find in your dental aisle.
- Dietary Sources – Tea is a natural source of fluoride, and as a result is a great addition to your diet. Blue crab also comes with its own naturally occurring fluoride, and since wine is also a good source you can have it in style. Another source you may not know about is potatoes, with the skin on they provide a good source of fluoride as well.
- Fluoridated Water – The majority of towns in the industrialized world have fluoridated water available to all homes on city water. This fluoride is added by the local water authority to ensure that people get enough of this vital mineral.
- Fluoride Tablets – These tablets are available from your dentist to aid you in getting sufficient fluoride in your diet.
- Fluoride Mouthwash – On top of being a great way to kill bacteria in your mouth, mouthwash also provides a useful source of fluoride that’s directed straight to your teeth during your rinse.
- Fluoride Toothpaste – Twice a day we brush our teeth, and every time we do we administer a dose of fluoride to our teeth, depending on the type of toothpaste you use.
As an essential part of good oral hygiene and a lifetime of great teeth fluoride is an absolute must. If you want to know if you’re getting enough fluoride contact Dr. Reynaldo Barbon at Superb Dental Care in Pasadena CA. At their clinic you’ll get an examination followed by a consultation letting you know where your dental care routine could use some work and whether you’re getting sufficient fluoride in your diet.
