If you’ve been to the dentist before then you have likely heard of fluoride. Typically after a routine clean, your dentist will apply fluoride to your teeth to provide a protective barrier to harmful bacteria and decay. You may remember it because of the grainy texture that it leaves on your teeth for a short while after getting the application. Your dentist will also usually ask you not to eat for 30 minutes to 1 hour after the application of fluoride so that it can work on your teeth without being washed away. So, what exactly is fluoride? Do you need it? Here are 3 facts on fluoride toothpaste that you should know.
Fact #1
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water sources, including the ocean and freshwater supplies. Fluoride is also found in our teeth and bones and has been linked to helping prevent tooth decay.
Fact #2
When fluoride is added to your diet or to your water, it works to strengthen the enamel on your teeth, making them stronger and whiter. This is why most dentists recommend using toothpaste that contains fluoride whenever possible, and why they treat your teeth with fluoride when you get an in depth cleaning.
Fact #3
Fluoridated toothpaste was first invented and sold to the public in 1956. Since then, it has remained a staple in the dental industry and used across the world to give teeth the biggest chance possible of staying whole, healthy, and hard enough to consume all foods we need.
Conclusion
Fluoride in toothpaste is a good thing. These three facts that we outlined about them are important to know when it comes to choosing the toothpaste you want to use on a daily basis. Be sure to get the toothpaste that your dentist recommends, but do also ask for those recommendations with the facts in mind that yes, fluoride will strengthen your teeth. If you have any questions on other ways to protect your teeth, speak with the orthodontists at Burke and Beckstrom today.
