Importance of Fluoride for Teeth

Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. It also reverses early decay. It is a mineral found naturally in many foods and water. In children during tooth development, fluoride helps teeth to have shallower grooves which helps reduce plaque and cavities. Fluoride is essential to

• Promote remineralisation, an organic process that works to help repair enamel before a cavity forms
• Build decay resistant tooth
• Make bacteria less sticky
• Inhibit acid formation by bacteria

How can we get fluoride?

• Water fluoridation which is the controlled addition of fluoride to a public water supply to reduce tooth decay.
• Fluoride is found naturally in many foods like fish, tea, etc.
• Fluoride is found in toothpaste and mouthwash. However, supervision is required to make sure children don’t swallow toothpaste as too much fluorine can be harmful to developing teeth.

The dentist might recommend topical fluoride application or fluoride supplements. Supplements are usually recommended only for children living in areas without adequate water fluoridation.