The fluoride found in toothpastes, mouth rinses and water plays an
integral role in eliminating and reducing tooth decay. The following
information outlines the benefits and importance of using fluoride in
oral health care.
PDA past president,
Dr. Thomas Gamba,
explains why fluoride
is important for
good dental health.
FAQ
What role does fluoride play in fighting
tooth decay?decay?
In the growth stages, fluoride makes tooth enamel harder and more
resistant to the acids causing tooth decay. Fluoride also helps stop the
growth of cavities and can prevent the formation of new cavities.
What are different sources of
fluoride?
Ways of receiving fluoride, aside from treatments from a dentist,
include the use of oral care products and drinking fluoridated water.
Approximately 90 percent of oral care products such as toothpastes and
mouth rinses contain fluoride.
Does all water contain
fluoride?
Although all water contains some fluoride, the levels needed to fight
tooth decay do not always naturally occur. To ensure water
contains the levels of fluoride necessary to fight tooth decay, it must
undergo a process called water fluoridation.
Is water fluoridation
safe?
Yes. More than 50 years of scientific studies have indicated that water
fluoridation, which provides the concentration recommended for
tooth-decay prevention, has no harmful effects. In addition, a study by
the U.S. Public Health Service found no link between the fluoridation of
drinking water and cancer.
Does bottled water contain amount of
fluoride recommended to fight tooth decay?
Do not assume that all bottled water contains the adequate amount of
fluoride to prevent tooth decay unless the fluoride content is printed
on the label.
Should my child be taking fluoride
supplements?
Children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years who are not drinking
fluoridated water should take fluoride supplements. Contact your dentist
or pediatrician to obtain supplements.
Is my community water
fluoridated?
Contact your local water company to determine if your water is
fluoridated, what the fluoridation levels are or what efforts are being
made to add fluoride to your community or school water supply. Contact
information for the water district should be listed on your water bill
or in the phone book.
