Fluoride is naturally found in the environment – in the air, in the soil and in the water. We’ve noticed over time that by drinking water fortified with the ideal level of fluoride, we’ve enjoyed fewer cavities. Scientists discovered that fluoride helps add good minerals to our teeth that fight against tooth decay.
Fluoride and Cavity Prevention
Our dentistry practice uses fluoride treatments to strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities and decay. We also provide Kanata Invisalign and Invisalign Teen to patients who desire straighter smiles without troublesome metal braces. Strong, healthy teeth reduce our risks of heart disease, diabetes and even certain types of cancer. Scientists have thoroughly test the use of fluoride and have deemed it useful for reducing cavities.
“The Canadian Dental Association supports the appropriate use of fluorides in dentistry as one of the most successful preventive health measures in the history of health care,” according to the CDA’s position statement. “Over 50 years of extensive research throughout the world has consistently demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of fluorides in the prevention of dental caries.”
The American Dental Association reports that you can benefit from a lifetime of fluoride-enriched community water for less money than it takes to get one cavity filled. Furthermore, studies show that fluoride reduces tooth decay by 20 to 40 percent. We know fluoride is a smart, useful and economic choice for cavity prevention.
So, where can you get fluoride? Not much fluoride can be gained from food, though many foods contain some fluoride in very small amounts. Seafood can contain more fluoride since ocean water contains natural amounts of sodium fluoride. But the best two places to get appropriate fluoride doses is from the tap and from dental products.
From the Tap
Many municipalities in Canada adjust fluoride levels in their community drinking water. Drinking water is one of the most important dietary changes you can make, and if you choose tap water over filtered water, you’ll also get the benefit of healthier teeth through safe fluoride doses. In Ottawa, fluoride is added to the central distribution center drinking water but not to the five communal well systems. The target fluoride level for the City of Ottawa is 0.70 mg/L, and these levels are monitored constantly. You can generally find out the target fluoride level for your drinking water on your local government’s website.
Water is also great for your tooth health already, since it encourages your saliva to flow. Your saliva naturally works to remove harmful oral bacteria and to clean your teeth and gums. Sodas aren’t the best choice for your teeth or your health. Sodas contain high levels of sugar, and that sugar is converted to acids in your mouth. Acids eat through the hard outer layer of your teeth to form holes, and these holes are dental cavities. Put down the soda and opt for tap water for immense health benefits.
From Dental Products
You’ve probably seen many dental products on the market that contain fluoride. Hopefully you’re already using toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent cavities and increase the efficiency of your at-home oral care. If not, ask your dentist for a great toothpaste recommendation to improve your oral hygiene and decrease dental cavities. You can also use a mouth rinse with fluoride to further fortify your teeth against decay, says the Ottawa family dentistry expert. Talk with your dentist about the best mouth rinse for your oral health needs.
Even with fluoridated water and fluoride-enriched dental products, you’ll still need to see your dentist at least twice a year. Your dentist can check your teeth and gums for any oral problems that you may not notice, and your hygienist can remove plaque and help reduce your chances of developing gum disease. Some of you may need to visit the dentist more often if you’re more prone to decay or gum disease. Contact us for a dental check-up in Orleans, Stittsville, Nepean, Kanata and downtown Ottawa. We put your oral health first, and we make sure you have all the tools to enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.