Fluoride or No Fluoride. Are you at risk?
My goal is to educate and empower you to make informed decisions about your oral health. One topic that often comes up is the difference between fluoride and non-fluoridated products. So let’s delve into this very controversial topic. At the end of each cleaning appointment, I always ask patients if they would like the fluoride varnish treatment. My personal opinion is that fluoride is ALWAYS beneficial. Between the greatly reduced access we have today from drinking bottled water over tap water, fluoride can greatly help remineralize our teeth from the constant harsh environment we keep it in daily. The main reason most people do not want it is because of it’s flavor and/or the stickiness feeling it leaves on the teeth, as well as many are looking for a fluoride alternative.
In most cities fluoride is added to the the drinking water to compensate for insufficient levels present. While back in the day many of us drank from garden hoses or water fountains now the main source of water for the public is water bottles. Most water bottles have all minerals stripped from them and do not contain fluoride. Everyday our mouths pH level is constantly changing pending on what we eat or drink, the pH level in the mouth directly affects the health of our teeth and gums. When the pH in the mouth falls below 5.5, this allows cavity causing bacteria to multiple at a rapid rate increasing our risk of tooth decay. Fluoride is there to combat that. More rural parts of the US where drinking water is un regulated or well water is used, an abundant amount of fluoride may be found naturally in the water. When water with too much fluoride is consumed during the tooth formation phase the teeth can get what is known as Fluorosis. This can cause a browning/staining of the teeth with pitted areas an cause enamel damage.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, and certain foods. It is renowned for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay caused by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Fluoride is considered one of the most effective preventive measures against tooth decay and cavities.
Fluoridated Products:
Fluoridated products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and professional treatments, contain a controlled amount of fluoride. These products work by replenishing and enhancing the natural fluoride levels in your teeth. Regular use of fluoridated products can help prevent tooth decay, reduce the risk of cavities, and promote overall oral health. Fluoride Varnish you are able to eat and drink like normal after use, we just ask that you dont brush for about 8 hrs after application. Your saliva allows the movement of the fluoride in between tight spaces in your mouth. Fluoride rinses and fluoride gel on the other hand are best when used at night before you got ot bed because you cannot eat or drink after. As your salivary flow naturally decrease at night while you sleep, the fluoride treatment is able to go to work,
Benefits of Fluoride:
1. Strengthens Tooth Enamel: Fluoride helps to rebuild weakened tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks.
2. Prevents Tooth Decay: Fluoride inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and reduces the production of acid, preventing tooth decay.
3. Remineralization: Fluoride promotes the remineralization process, which repairs early-stage tooth decay and prevents further damage.
4. Protects Teeth at All Ages: Both children and adults can benefit from fluoride products. For children, fluoride is crucial during the development of permanent teeth, while adults can use it to maintain their oral health.
Prescription & OTC Fluoridated Products:
Prevident 5000 gel, Fluoridex
OTC:
Gel Kam: http://amzn.to/3OlbU6O
Hello Paste : https//amzn.to/49cWIFU
Non-Fluoridated Products:
Non-fluoridated products, on the other hand, do not contain added fluoride. While they may still offer basic cleaning benefits, they lack the additional protection and preventive properties provided by fluoride. There is also a supplement to these non fluoridated toothpaste which have hydroapetite in place of fluoride.
Unlike fluoride, which carries a small risk of dental fluorosis when children ingest large amounts, hydroxyapatite has not been found to have similar negative effects. But while hydroxyapatite helps to protect and strengthen teeth at a deeper level, it is more vulnerable to acidity. There is no research availabkle that shows either is more efficient
Who Can Benefit Most from Fluoride Products?
1. Children: Fluoride is particularly beneficial for children during the formative years of tooth development. Regular use of fluoride toothpaste and professional treatments can significantly reduce their risk of cavities.
2. Those with a High Cavity Risk: Individuals who have a history of cavities, poor oral hygiene, or a diet high in sugar or acids can benefit greatly from using fluoride products.
3. Older Adults: As we age, our teeth become more susceptible to decay and damage. As we age our taste buds tend to decrease, which have us increasing the salt and sugar in our diet so that food is more appealing and taste better.
4. Individuals with Dry Mouth: Dry mouth, often caused as a side effect of most medications or certain medical conditions, can increase the risk of tooth decay. Fluoride products can help combat this by promoting saliva production and protecting teeth. The dryer the mouth is, the more bacteria stick to the teeth; the lack of saliva available to move the debris, increase the risk for decay. Brushing the debris from our teeth followed by a daily fluoride rinse or gel can help strengthen aging teeth and protect against tooth decay
Fluuoride Free and Hydroxyapatite Products :
Dr Jen’s Natural toothpaste https://amzn.to/3SBa3Nw
Therafresh Fluoride Free toothpaste: https://amzn.to/3u2Yq8P
Davids NanoHydroxyapatite: https://amzn.to/49bfJmP
