If you’ve been online, at your local mom’s group, or anywhere else there’s a cacophony of opinions, you may have heard some interesting claims about fluoride. Unfortunately, there are many untrue rumors swirling around out there, making understanding this mighty mineral a lot harder. Here are three common myths we’ve heard about fluoride, and the real truth behind this naturally occurring, smile saving treatment!
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in things like leafy green vegetables and certain varieties of fish. It is also located in water supplies like rivers, lakes, and even rainwater. Because it has been shown to help strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities, it is also added to many communities’ public water supplies as an additional layer of protection for your smile, and can be provided as a treatment from your dentist after your regular checkup and cleaning to strenghten the teeth.
Myth #1: Too Much Fluoride Can Damage Teeth
While it is true that too much fluoride can damage your teeth, the good news is that no public water supply uses close to enough of this powerful mineral for it to be harmful. In fact, unless your child is eating entire tubes of toothpaste regularly, their risk of developing fluorosis (the condition caused by too much fluoride) is extremely low.
Myth #2: Bottled Water is Better
While it’s true that bottled water can help filter out higher levels of sediment from drinking supplies, it shouldn’t be relied on for regular consumption unless you have no access to safe tap water. Bottled water does not contain fluoride at all, so it provides no protection for teeth, and studies have shown that drinking it exclusively may actually increase your risk of cavities!
Myth #3: Fluoride-Free Toothpaste is Just as Good
All-natural toothpaste sounds good in theory, but unfortunately it doesn’t carry the same weight in practice. That’s because these products only get the teeth clean and offer no protection against cavities like fluoridated varieties do. For small children who may still swallow toothpaste, a pea-sized amount should be sufficient to protect their teeth and gums without causing any gastrointestinal discomfort from ingestion.
Remember, fluoride is a safe, effective treatment for your child’s smile that can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Don’t let dangerous myths scare you away from protecting their tiny teeth. Talk to your dentist about the benefits of fluoride today!
About Our Practice
At Dental Center of Lakewood, Dr. Spillman and Dr. Green understand the importance of protecting your child’s growing smile from cavities. That’s why they’re proud to offer fluoride treatment that can be applied right at the end of their regular dental checkup and cleaning. This fast, convenient, completely safe add-on can strengthen the enamel and help reduce cavities by up to 43 percent. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 214-823-5253.