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Posted on: July 15, 2014
The Benefits of Fluoride and Where to Find It
Fluoride is an important mineral for maintaining healthy tooth enamel. Long-
standing research has made fluoride a go-to mineral for the dental community to
recommend to its patients of all levels of health and backgrounds.
Across the United States public water supplies are supplemented with fluoride in
order to maintain public health and improve oral health.
However, as our society has moved toward the widespread use of bottled water
many patients may not be receiving enough fluoride to adequately protect their
teeth. Additionally new hot water treatment systems available on the market also
reduce important fluoride supplies in public water.
How can I make up for lost fluoride?
Fluoride exposure is most important for adult patients. One easy way to increase
your exposure is to continue to drink tap water. Even filtered tap water contains
fluoride that is important for strengthening your enamel and preventing tooth
decay. By limiting your bottled water intake you’ll not only save money but also
protect your teeth.
Additionally, by using fluoride toothpaste and brushing twice a day you greatly
increase your overall dental health. Finally, fluoride mouth rinses are often great
complements to your at-home dental routine. Mouthwashes not only provide a
much needed fluoride supplement but can also keep your smile bright and your
breath fresh.
What about fluoride for children?
While the fluoride found in drinking water should be perfectly safe for your children
to drink, it is important to otherwise limit your child’s fluoride exposure as their
young teeth are still developing. Therefore, be sure to only use toothpastes and
mouth rinses that are specially designed for infants or children, which mostly lack
fluoride altogether.