Everybody wants strong, healthy teeth. And our teeth are built to last. But all teeth suffer the regular wear and tear of use. It is important to help your teeth as much as possible. One tool you can use in your fight against tooth decay is fluoride.
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally all over the planet. In the human body, it is beneficial because it strengthens tooth enamel. Enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth that protects the softer, more sensitive inner layer. Enamel gets worn away over time from use and corroded by acid from food and bacteria in your mouth.
Fluoride works over your entire life, even before your teeth start showing. It is absorbed by the body from food and provides a systemic benefit to your teeth before they erupt. After they start showing, fluoride is constantly applied by saliva, which absorbs it from food and drink. It can also be applied topically with toothpaste.
Community water fluoridation has become very popular. Nearly 75% of Americans get fluoride added to their drinking water. This has proven extremely effective in reducing tooth decay in children and adults. Only a tiny amount is needed–a handful of parts per million, in fact–but the effects are clear. You can also use fluoride toothpaste, which is safe for adults and children of all ages. Not all toothpaste contains fluoride, though, so be sure to check for an ADA Seal of Acceptance.
If you have further questions about fluoride, please call us at [phone]. [practice_name] is here to meet the dental needs of everyone in the [city], [state], area.