The Benefits of Fluoride

What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found throughout the earth’s crust and widely distributed in nature.

How Does Fluoride Work?
Fluoride helps prevent cavities in two different ways:

• Fluoride concentrates in the growing bones and developing teeth of children, helping to harden the enamel on baby and adult teeth before they emerge
• Fluoride helps to harden the enamel on adult teeth that have already emerged

Fluoride works during the demineralization and remineralization processes that naturally occur in your mouth.

• After you eat, your saliva contains acids that cause demineralization a dissolving of the calcium and phosphorous under the tooth’s surface
• At other times when your saliva is less acidic it does just the opposite, replenishing the calcium and phosphorous that keep your teeth hard. This process is caused remineralization. When fluoride is present during remineralization, the minerals deposited are harder than they would otherwise be, helping to strengthen your teeth and prevent dissolution during the next demineralization phase

How do I Know if I’m Getting Enough Fluoride?

Brushing regularly with a fluoride toothpaste is considered sufficient for adults and children with healthy teeth at low risk of decay. Your dentist can tell you how much fluoride is right for your family, so be sure to ask for his or her advice. 

Call 832-830-8226 to schedule your appointment today!