Get the facts about fluoride and learn why this naturally occurring mineral is essential for maintaining strong, healthy teeth.
Saarah Dar
Dental Hygienist
4 min read
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been the subject of much discussion in recent years. At Gartside Street Dental Lounge in Manchester, we want to provide you with accurate, evidence-based information about fluoride and its role in maintaining excellent oral health. Our dental hygiene service includes professional fluoride treatments when appropriate.
The scientific consensus is clear: fluoride is beneficial for dental health when used appropriately. It's one of the most effective tools we have for preventing tooth decay and strengthening tooth enamel. Decades of research have shown that fluoride helps reduce cavities by 20-40% in both children and adults.
Fluoride works by strengthening your tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in your mouth. When you consume fluoride, it becomes incorporated into your developing teeth, creating stronger enamel. It also helps remineralise areas of your teeth that have been weakened by acid but haven't yet developed into cavities.
Fluoride toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to protect your teeth. The fluoride in toothpaste provides topical protection, strengthening your enamel and helping prevent decay. Most dental associations recommend using fluoride toothpaste for everyone over the age of two.
Fluoridated water has been one of the most successful public health measures of the 20th century. In areas where water is fluoridated, there has been a significant reduction in tooth decay rates. The concentration of fluoride in water is carefully controlled to provide dental benefits while maintaining safety.
Professional fluoride treatments during dental check-ups can provide additional protection, especially for patients at higher risk of decay. These treatments use higher concentrations of fluoride than toothpaste and can help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities.
Like many substances, fluoride is beneficial in appropriate amounts but can be harmful in excessive quantities. This is why fluoride levels in water and dental products are carefully regulated. The amounts used in dental care are well below any harmful levels and provide significant dental benefits.
Some people have expressed concerns about fluoride, but these concerns are not supported by scientific evidence. Multiple studies have shown that fluoride, when used as recommended, is safe and effective for preventing tooth decay.
At our Manchester practice, we recommend fluoride as part of a comprehensive oral health strategy. We'll assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate fluoride products and treatments to help you maintain strong, healthy teeth.
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