Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel of your teeth, making them more resistant to the acid produced by bacteria that leads to cavities and tooth decay. Applying fluoride to the teeth helps them become stronger and more resistant to the bacteria which looms in the mouth. These bacteria can wreak havoc on our teeth, producing acid which erodes tooth enamel leading to cavities and decay. Fluoride works by both keeping this enamel strong and reducing acid production by the bacteria. Not only that, fluoride also stops caries in their tracks – meaning it can halt growth of further decay. So not only does fluoride help prevent further tooth issues, it can also repair minor damage! Thankfully, we don’t just have to rely on ingesting enough fluoride; many toothpastes and mouthwashes contain it too – so no risk of missing out! It’s no wonder why using a product with fluoride is the best way to keep your pearly whites looking beautiful while maintaining good oral health.
Public Water Fluoridation
Soil, water, plants and foods contain trace amounts of fluoride. Most fluoride people consume comes from fluoridated water, toothpaste and other dental products containing fluoride. In adults, about 50% of absorbed fluoride is retained within the body, with all but 1% stored in bones and teeth. The other 50% is excreted through urine. In young children, however, up to 80% of absorbed fluoride is retained because more is taken up by bones and teeth than in adults.
Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, was first added to water in U.S. communities in the mid-1940s to protect dental health, particularly in areas with limited access to dental care.
From the very start, water fluoridation has been an unpopular program. In its 60+ year history, the majority of US communities that have had an opportunity to vote on the measure have rejected it. Fluoridation was thus established in the US not through public referenda, but executive actions by government bodies.
While the long-term effects of fluoride exposure are not well understood, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Dental Association, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the CDC continue to recommend fluoridated water for dental health.
Several US cities have either ended or voted to end fluoride in their drinking water. Many cities have done away with fluoride in the public water systems. (Although many Texas cities have done away with it, we, here in Dallas, still have fluoride in the system.)
These health agencies attest that the current designated levels of fluoride in drinking water are safe and that fluoride toothpaste and supplements are safe for use in age-appropriate amounts.
Food Sources
Brewed tea typically contains higher levels of fluoride than most foods because tea plants take up higher levels of fluoride from the soil. Fluoride levels can range from 0.3 to 6.5 Mg/L (0.07 to 1.5 mg/cup) in brewed tea made with distilled water.
Other foods that contain small traces fluoride are: Coffee, shrimp, raising, oatmeal, grapefruit, potatoes, rice, cottage cheese, pork chops, lamb chops, yogurt and more.
Research on Fluoridation
Research on the effects of fluoride exposure is limited and ongoing. The problem with the current literature is a lack of substantial evidence supporting the potential health harms to populations within the United States, most notably the possible neurotoxic effects in children.
Adding to the confusion, fluoride levels are much higher in many countries outside the United States, where research on fluoride exposure is more common. What’s more, most European countries and some provinces in Canada do not add fluoride to drinking water at all.
Despite advancements in dental care and the unknowns about potential health effects, many people may wonder why fluoride is still in our drinking water.
What are the health risks of fluoride exposure?
1. Dental Fluorosis: Is a cosmetic condition affecting tooth enamel, caused by overexposure to fluoride during tooth development, primarily in children under 8 years old. It may appear as faint white lines or spots on the teeth, while more advanced cases cause brown stains and pitting. It is caused by ingesting too much fluoride, often through drinking water with naturally unusually high fluoride levels or excessive use of fluoride supplements or toothpaste in young children.
a. Prevalence: Studies have shown that 23% of individuals between 6-49 years old exhibit some form of dental fluorosis. This means that nearly 1 in 4 people have had excessive exposure to fluoride during the years their teeth were developing. The majority (16% have extremely mild fluorosis, followed by mild (4.8%), moderate (2%) and very few with severe fluorosis (less than 1%). Rates of dental fluorosis have nearly doubled among adolescents in the United States over the past several decades.
2. Skeletal Fluorosis: Is a bone disease resulting from long-term, excessive fluoride exposure, causing changes in bone density, but potentially leading to brittleness and fractures. Early symptoms may include joint pain and stiffness, while severe cases can cause bone and joint deformities and even neurological problems due to nerve compression. CAUSE: It is more common in areas with naturally HIGH levels in drinking water, particularly in regions with hot climates where water consumption is high.
a. Prevalence: This is very rarely diagnosed here in the US, but is endemic in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia and Africa.
In an effort to reduce the rates of this condition, in 2015, the amount of fluoride added to water to prevent tooth decay was lowered from 1.2 mg/L to 0.7 mg/L due to increased fluorosis in children in previous decades.
Benefits of Fluoride for Adults:
Prevents Tooth Decay: Fluoride strengthens enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars, preventing cavities.
Remineralizes Weakened Enamel: Fluoride can reverse early signs of tooth decay by helping to rebuild the minerals lost from the enamel.
Reduces Sensitivity: Fluoride treatments can reduce the sensitivity of teeth, making them less reactive to hot, cold, and acidic foods and drinks.
Protects Against Root Caries: Fluoride is particularly effective in protecting the roots of teeth, which are more susceptible to decay in older adults.
Who May Benefit from Additional Fluoride:
Individuals with dry mouth: Dry mouth, often caused by medications or aging, can increase the risk of decay. Fluoride treatments can help protect teeth in these cases.
Those with receding gums: Receding gums expose the root surface, which is more vulnerable to decay. Fluoride treatments can provide additional protection.
People with Braces or Other Orthodontic Appliances: Braces can trap bacteria, increasing the risk of decay. Fluoride can help prevent decay in these cases.
Individuals at High Risk for Decay: This includes those with a high sugar/acidic diet, lack of regular dental care, or a history of decay.
Older Adults: Older adults may experience reduced saliva production, making them more susceptible to tooth decay. Fluoride treatments can help protect their teeth.
Fluoride Treatments for Adults:
In-Office Fluoride Treatments: Dentists can apply fluoride gel, foam, or varnish to teeth during regular check-ups.
At-Home Fluoride Treatments: Prescription fluoride gels or rinses can be used at home to provide additional fluoride protection.
Important Note: While fluoride is generally safe, it’s crucial to follow recommended guidelines and avoid extreme excessive fluoride intake, as it can lead to fluorosis (tooth discoloration).
Conclusion:
Fluoride plays a vital role in maintaining oral health for adults, helping to prevent tooth decay and strengthen teeth. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and professional fluoride treatments can provide valuable protection, especially for individuals at higher risk of decay.
