Patient Education
Fluoride & decay prevention
Nature’s Enamel Strengthener
How fluoride was discovered
Many years ago, scientists noticed that children born and raised in areas with natural fluoride in the drinking water had fewer cavities than children elsewhere. Fluoride absorbed by the body while teeth are forming — from pregnancy through early childhood — integrates into the structure of the enamel itself and makes it stronger.
It keeps working after teeth erupt
Once teeth have erupted, the fluoride in your toothpaste and mouthwash — and the professional fluoride your dentist applies — still has a positive effect: it strengthens enamel and reduces the chance of tooth decay.
If you have children and live in an area without fluoride in the drinking water, ask your dentist and physician about fluoride supplements available for children — the benefit during the tooth-forming years is significant.
We include fluoride guidance as part of every hygiene visit — including sealants for the decay-prone grooves of children’s molars where they help most.
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