Understanding the advantages of dental fluoride

A healthy smile starts with developing healthy mouth care habits at a young age. Mississauga, Ontario parents often work with Dr. Rina Kotecha to get their children’s dental health off to a good start. Dr. Kotecha provides parents with tips to help make brushing and flossing fun, explains the need for regular checkups, and helps parents determine if their child would benefit from fluoride treatments. 

What is fluoride? 

Fluoride is a mineral that is found in our bones and teeth. In dentistry, it is used to help strengthen the enamel and protect the teeth from damage or decay. In some areas of the country, fluoride is added to the public water system. Where it’s not, dentists may suggest adding it to your daily health care habits through special toothpaste, mouth rinse, or vitamins. 

Benefits of fluoride

Fluoride helps prevent cavities by rebuilding weak tooth enamel, slowing down mineral loss, preventing the growth of oral bacteria, and even reversing small amounts of tooth decay. 

Fluoride is commonly suggested for children, mainly as their mouths are growing, they’re forming new teeth, and still learning to brush their teeth properly. Fluoride can also be used for adults who are prone to cavities. 

Other tips to keep your mouth healthy

While fluoride will help strengthen the enamel of the teeth, it’s not a replacement for proper oral health care. Children and adults should be sure to consider the following dental health tips:

• Brush twice a day and floss at least once to remove food particles before they become stuck on the teeth. If not removed, these food particles will stick to the teeth and, together with acid in your mouth, begin to cause cavities or gum disease.
• Eat healthily and drink water to limit the amount of sugar and acid in your mouth. Make sure your diet includes plenty of raw vegetables, protein, and calcium-rich foods.
• Visit the dentist at least twice each year for a professional dental cleaning and an oral exam. Your dentist can spot any early signs of trouble before they become more significant problems.
  

For more information about fluoride or keeping your smile healthy, call the Dentistry On 10 office at (905) 455-9262.

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