The Benefits of Fluoride

If you have a fluoride water filter, here's what you are filtering...

Can reversing gum disease be yet another fluoride benefit?

How does it work?

Who needs fluoride?

If your water doesn't already have enough naturally occuring fluoride, it is most likely added.

Call your water provider to see if your water is fluoridated.

Those who drink water without fluoride should consider using a fluoride mouthwash or prescription strength paste or gel.

Even if you have fluoride in your water, fluoride products may be recommended if you:

• Get cavities. Do you have a cavity every time you go for a checkup? If so, you have a higher than normal decay rate. Using fluoride is one way to lower your decay rate.
• Have a receding gum line. Receded gums expose your roots. Roots are not meant to be exposed. They not as hard as enamel and decay faster and easier. One of the benefits of fluoride is added protection for your exposed roots.
• Have sensitive teeth. Be sure to get a check up if you have sensitive teeth. You might have a problem that needs dental treatment. If not, fluoride will make your teeth harder and less sensitive.
• Have a dry mouth. If you have a dry mouth you are more prone to cavities. Extra thorough brushing and flossing, and using fluoride products will lower your decay rate.
• Are a kid. Baby teeth decay faster than adult teeth. Most kids don't brush very well. My favorite fluoride benefits: it helps keep kids cavity free:)
• Have gum disease Stannous fluoride has been shown to slow the growth of bacteria that cause gum disease.


• Drink bottled water. Most bottled water goes through a fluoride filter. Unlike tap water, many types of bottled water are not fluoridated.

Ways to supplement

Most toothpastes contain fluoride. In fact, it's really hard to find a toothpaste without fluoride. Some toothpastes have more than others. To increase your fluoride you can either use an over the counter fluoride rinse or ask your dentist to prescribe a fluoride gel or rinse.

Most OTC fluoride rinses have .022 - .05% sodium fluoride. Prescription fluoride gels, rinses and fluoride drops are more concentrated.

Side effects:

Decalcification (from poor brushing) is the most common cause of spotted or discolored enamel.

Fluoride is toxic if too much is ingested. Fluoride supplements are not recommended for children under age 6. Older children should not use fluoride unsupervised.

Brush with it at night instead of your usual toothpaste.

Want to learn more about the benefits of fluoride? Click here for the American Dental Hygienists' Association's Fluoride Facts.

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