Fluoride

Fluoride

Water fluoridation provides both topical and systemic benefits for prevention of tooth decay. Community water fluoridation is an extremely effective and inexpensive means of obtaining the fluoride necessary for optimal prevention of tooth decay. Some communities have naturally fluoridated water supplies. If your community's water supply has low levels of fluoride, optimal levels can be achieved by simply adding additional fluoride. If you are unsure about the fluoride level in our community's water, ask Dr. Buchholtz and/or contact your local or state health department or water supplier. Many state health departments provide low cost test kits to check your waters fluoride level.

More than 60 years of research and experience have shown that optimal levels of fluoridated water do not harm people or the environment. Fluoridation of community water supplies is supported by the American Dental Association, the American Medical Association and the World Health Organization.

What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in all water sources, including the oceans.

Why is Fluoride Important to Teeth?
Research has shown that fluoride not only prevents cavities in children and adults, it also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before the decay is visible.

How do I get Fluoride?
Fluoride is obtained in two forms: topical and systemic. Topical fluorides may be found in toothpastes, mouth rinses and fluoride applied in the dental office. Systemic fluorides are those that are swallowed. They include fluoridated water and dietary fluoride supplements in the form of tablets, drops or lozenges. The maximum reduction in tooth decay is achieved when fluoride is available both topically and systemically.