Fluoride benefits both children and adults. Here’s how:
Before teeth break through the gums, the fluoride taken in from foods, beverages and dietary supplements makes tooth enamel {the hard surface of the tooth} stronger and easier to resist tooth decay.
After teeth erupt, fluoride helps rebuild weakened tooth enamel and reverses early signs of tooth decay. When you brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste, or use other fluoride dental products, the fluoride is applied to the surface of your teeth.
How Do I Get Fluoride?
Drink water with Fluoride
Fluoride is naturally found in most all water sources, rivers, lakes, wells and even the oceans. Today, almost 75 percent of the U.S. population is served by fluoridated community water systems.
Use Toothpaste and Mouth rise with fluoride
Look for one with ADA Seal of Acceptance to make sure it contains fluoride. Mouth wash with fluoride can help make your teeth more resistant to decay, but children six years or younger should not use it unless it’s been recommended by a dentist.
Visit Your Dentist for a Professional Application
If you have a good chance of getting cavities, your dentist can apply fluoride directly to your teeth during your dental visit with a gel, foam or rinse.
Take a Fluoride Supplement
Available by prescription only; fluoride supplements come in tablet, drop or lozenge forms. They are recommended only for children ages six months to 16 years living in areas without adequate amounts of fluoride in their community drinking water and who are at high risk of developing cavities.