Why is Fluoride Used in Dentistry?
The presence of fluoride in dentistry is a common and well-utilized occurrence. Fluoride is a great resource to aid in cavity prevention and, in some cases, arrest it after it has begun. Fluoride is not only a benefit to our teeth but also vital to our bones.
Yet, fluoride has garnered negative attention, resulting from some speculations that can be confusing to consumers today. Rest assured, fluoride is not something to be afraid of. This article will discuss the benefits of fluoride as well as the precautions everyone should take when using it.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, air, soil, and some foods. It was discovered in the early 1900s by Dr. Frederick McKay, a dentist practicing in the state of Colorado. Dr. McKay was on a mission to understand why the residents of random municipalities in the area suffered from unsightly brown stains and mottling(spots) on their teeth.
Research and time showed that the teeth of these individuals, who were usually children, were extremely resilient to cavities, whereas their parents were not so fortunate. The source of truth was discovered to be the local water sources, which were contaminated with excessive levels of fluoride.
From here, it was apparent that fluoride could benefit all individuals. However, the utilization of such treatment would require caution, research, and evaluation of outcomes.
Over time, the exact amount of fluoride needed in water supplies to provide a therapeutic benefit to the community without creating tooth staining was ascertained. This discovery of systemic fluoride—essentially ingested fluoride—revolutionized the dental industry. By the 1960s, local municipalities began adopting fluoride use by treating water sources with the exact dosage needed to prevent dental decay. They continue to do so today due to its success.
Fluorosis occurs when a person has been overexposed to fluoride. It results in a mottled or discolored appearance on the enamel of the teeth, ranging from white streaks to brown spots. Mild cases of dental fluorosis may not be particularly noticeable, but severe cases can dramatically affect the appearance of the teeth.
Fluorosis affects children during the permanent tooth development phase, typically during their first eight years of life. While it is not harmful to the tooth, the appearance often raises a concern. Fluorosis cases are usually mild and do not cause any other related health problems, but cosmetic dental treatment is frequently a future consideration.
Today, fluorosis often results from ingesting fluoride during the early tooth development. This condition can result from accidentally swallowing fluoride toothpaste, excessive use of fluoride supplements, or consuming high levels of fluoridated mouth rinse. It is always recommended that parents closely monitor their children’s use of any dental products to prevent overexposure.
Discussing fluoride can only be completed by discussing the types of exposure in our environment. Fluorosis results from systemic fluoride, which is ingested into a person’s body and systemically absorbed into our body systems. Systemic fluoride has its benefits, such as creating healthy, strong teeth for individuals during tooth development. This results in a long-term resiliency to decay for a lifetime—and that is a great benefit!
In addition to systemic fluoride, there is also topical fluoride. Topical fluoride is the application of fluoride or fluoridated products directly on tooth surfaces to aid in cavity prevention – but intended to be immediately expectorated or expelled from our mouths after use. Examples of topical fluoride include toothpaste, mouth rinses and fluoride treatments provided at your dental office.
Topical fluoride benefits the tooth surfaces where it is applied, strengthening those surfaces when used consistently over time. It can be considered harmless as long as it is used as directed. Every time we use ADA-approved toothpaste or fluoridated mouth rinses, we strengthen the outer surfaces of our teeth that are most prone to cavities.
However, there are circumstances when topical fluoride can be misused, resulting in adverse outcomes. While this is rare, topical fluoride can create systemic issues when not used properly. Following all instructions on your dental products and monitoring your child’s use of fluoridated products will ensure the prevention of fluoridation overexposure.
If you have well water, there is a chance that you do not have therapeutic levels of systemic fluoride.
If you have been affected by fluorosis, you may be uncomfortable with your smile and seek a solution. Bonham Sunshine Dental and Implant Center in Bonham, Texas, has options for you, and we strive to provide you with the outcome you desire and deserve!
Depending on the severity of a patient’s case, treatment options are available for fluorosis staining. Common options include teeth whitening, microabrasion, and the use of dental veneers or bonding to cover the stained areas. Every case is different, and our caring dentist, Dr. Kajuri Ramchand, is ready to aid you in making the best decision for you and your smile.
Fluoride is not something to fear. It is a natural supplement that can aid in your dental health journey. Following the appropriate guidance and precautions during use is key to achieving the desired outcome.
Our knowledgeable community dentist is ready to answer all your questions about fluorosis and explain how we can help at Bonham Sunshine Dental and Implant Center in Bonham, Texas!
