Properly caring for your teeth involves a multi-faceted approach. It is important that you brush and floss, as well as receive regular oral exams and cleanings from our skilled professionals. However, there is one very important substance that can help you get the most out of your oral care practices. This substance is fluoride.
Fluoride combines with other substances found on your enamel, such as calcium, to form a protective coating on the outside of your teeth. This substance helps ward off bacteria and even prevents cavities.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance that is found on the Earth. It can be found in rocks, water, and even soil. The core element of fluoride is a chemical called fluorine. It does not become fluoride until it receives a positive charge by coming into contact with other substances.
How Do I Get Fluoride?
Adding fluoride to your oral care regimen is very easy, but our team can help guide you through this process to help make sure that you are getting just the right amount. For most of our patients, getting fluoride usually starts with your water supply, as many municipalities add fluoride to the water. You can check with your local water department to find out if your water contains fluoride.
You can get fluoride from lots of other sources as well. When you come in for a cleaning, our professionals can add a long-lasting fluoride gel to your teeth. Many types of mouthwash and toothpaste also include fluoride in them as well.
These sources will usually include an American Dental Association seal, which lets you know that the fluoride content has been verified and determined to be present in proper amounts. Contact our office if you are ready to learn more about the benefits of fluoride and better protect your teeth.
Dentist DC • Neil Starr, DDS, PC • Dental Blog Dr. Starr is offering this educational blog as a resource to our patients. Our hope is hope that our blog will cover subjects that you may be interested in. Neil L. Starr, DDS, PC, 1234 19th St NW #306, Washington, DC 20036 ~ (202) 293-7177 ~ starrteeth.com ~ 9/24/2023 ~ Related Phrases: dental implants DC ~