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Does Fluoride
Really Make a Difference?
 In
the past, cavities were a fact of life. But over the last
several years tooth decay has been reduced dramatically due
to fluoride. Fluoride is beneficial for adults as well as
children. Research has shown that fluoride reduces cavities
by up to 40% in children and 35% in adults.*
Is Fluoride
Safe?
Yes. Numerous studies over the past 60 years
have shown that fluoride at recommended levels is not only
safe, but provides significant health benefits.*
How Does Fluoride
Help Children?
Children benefit from fluoride both systemically
(by ingesting fluoride) and topically (the fluoride
that gets on their teeth). Systemic and topical fluoride work
together to keep teeth strong. Fluoride works best in children
while teeth are forming. This helps both primary (baby) and
permanent teeth. Starting at birth, and until all permanent
teeth have fully erupted, ingested fluoride helps strengthen
teeth as they are forming. Topical fluoride helps people of
all ages. Fluoride is the only known substance that will actually
strengthen teeth and make them harder.
Does My Child
Need Fluoride Supplements?
Most city water is fluoridated and is an adequate
source of systemic (ingested) fluoride. If your family uses
well water or bottled water, you should have your water tested
to see if there is adequate natural fluoride, or if a fluoride
supplement is needed. Check with your local Health Department
or bottled water manufacturer for testing. If adequate fluoride
is not present, your child may need a prescription fluoride
supplement from your dentist.
Topical fluoride is provided by fluoridated
toothpastes and rinses. Additional fluoride treatments are
applied as needed by your dentist during regular check-ups.
Does Fluoride
Benefit Adults, Too?
Yes! Topical fluoride helps people of all ages
by stopping the progression of a newly formed cavity and preventing
root cavities. Fluoride is also helpful for patients with
sensitive teeth. A consistent daily use of topical fluoride
will often dramatically decrease tooth sensitivity to hot
and cold substances. At your regular check-up, we will evaluate
your particular situation to determine if additional fluoride
treatments are needed.
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* Source: American Dental Association
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