Why are fluorides important in dentistry?

Scientific research has proven that fluoride ions reduce cavities in children and adults. Specifically, fluoride compounds providing fluoride ions can aid in the repair of early dental cavities even before signs of decay become visible. When used effectively, fluoride compounds are a powerful preventive agent.

How does fluoride work to prevent cavities?

There are 3 ways in which the fluoride ion acts to prevent cavities.

• It makes teeth stronger by acting on dental enamel and making it less soluble and more resistant to acids that cause the "cavities"
• It actually helps remineralize/harden tooth enamel that has been softened by acids.It actually helps remineralize/harden tooth enamel that has been softened by acids.
• It helps reduce the ability of dental plaque to produce the acids that contribute to the decay proces

Sources of Fluorides?

Actually, fluoride compounds are very common and occur in the oceans, the earth's crust, and fresh water supplies in many areas. In dentistry, we are really talking about the effect of the fluoride ion, which is released in these compounds.Fluoride ions are provided mainly through fluoride compounds in drinking water, toothpastes, mouth rinses, supplements (lozenges, tablets, drops) and fluoride gels, which are applied during a visit to the dental office. Recent evidence indicates that fluoride applied topically is more effective for cavities reduction than fluoride taken systemically, when teeth have erupted. Topical delivery of fluoride includes uses of toothpastes, rinses or gels in a mouth tray.

Can use of fluoride be harmful?

Yes. Dental Fluorosis is a white mottling or flecking on children's teeth, which is related to the exposure to fluoride beyond what is necessary for the prevention of tooth decay. Most dental fluorosis is mild and barely visible. Moderate to severe cases can be unsightly and require cosmetic dental treatment. Parents should watch over the tooth brushing of young children and educate them to use only a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste on their toothbrush. Young children tend to swallow toothpaste because they have not yet developed their ability to spit out and also due to the various flavors of toothpastes on the market. However, all of us are exposed to many different sources of fluoride: toothpaste, mouthwash, processed foods and drinking water in areas where fluoride is added. In the last 10 years, more cases of fluorosis have appeared - not all in children, but in youth aged 15 and 16 years old. Our dentists believe that the general population may be getting too much fluoride, and that this is something we need to be careful of. The actual source of the fluoride that is added to your drinking water can be another issue. Medical grade fluoride should always be used, which historically has not always been the case.