Fluoride is one of those things most of us have heard about for years, often in passing, but without giving it much thought. One of our Catford dentists might mention it during a check-up, or you may spot it on a toothpaste label. It is easy to assume it is just another ingredient in the mix, but it has a surprisingly important job. If you have ever wondered why dentists keep talking about it, there is a good reason; fluoride quietly strengthens teeth day after day, and most people would struggle with far more dental problems without it.
The simplest way to think about fluoride is to imagine it as a kind of ‘support worker’ for your tooth enamel. The enamel on your teeth might seem to be rock solid, but it softens a little every time you eat or drink something acidic or sugary. This happens constantly. Even someone who brushes well and keeps an eye on their diet will expose their teeth to plenty of small 'acid attacks' throughout the day. Fluoride helps the enamel recover. It encourages minerals to settle back into the surface so the weakened patches have a chance to harden again. Without that, early damage can gradually turn into tooth decay.
The most common way that patients of the Rushey Green Dental Practice will most likely get their fluoride is in toothpaste and most brands will contain this ingredient. Twice a day, a small amount is enough. There is nothing complicated about it; it just works steadily in the background. In the long run it reduces decay quite noticeably, especially in children.
Young children, in fact, are one of the groups that benefit the most. While their teeth are forming, fluoride becomes part of the developing enamel. That gives the teeth a stronger start. Dentists sometimes advise fluoride varnish for younger patients, partly because it is an easy way to add extra protection, and partly because children sometimes struggle with quality brushing. A varnish coating buys a little extra safety while they grow into good brushing habits.
Adults still need fluoride on a daily basis and teeth age like the rest of us. Gums might also recede as we grow older, causing the teeth roots to become exposed.. These areas do not have enamel protecting them and are more vulnerable to decay. Fluoride can help here too, reinforcing the exposed areas so they are not left completely unprotected. People taking certain medications that cause dry mouth are also at a higher risk, as saliva normally helps neutralise acids and repair the teeth. With less saliva around, fluoride becomes even more valuable.
Some of our Catford patients might worry about fluoride, perhaps because of things they have read online or have been told by others. In ordinary use, fluoride toothpaste is very safe. The amounts are small and carefully controlled. Problems only arise when extremely high doses are taken, which is not something that happens through normal brushing. Our dentists monitor children’s fluoride use as an extra precaution, making sure the right amounts are used at the right ages. If parents have concerns, it is always better to ask than to rely on rumours.
If you are tempted to use fluoride free toothpastes, whether out of concern or because you follow a ‘natural foods’ type of lifestyle, we recommend that you think again. Patients that don’t use fluoride toothpastes usually end up with a lot more fillings than those that do.
Just having fluoride in your toothpaste doesn’t mean that overall care is not important. It is essential. In addition to brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, you still need to do this well and floss too, as well as taking care of what you eat and drink on a daily basis. In other words, it helps keep problems small so that they do not turn into larger issues later.
If you have been wondering whether you are using enough fluoride or the right type, your dentist can offer guidance during your appointment. Sometimes a slightly stronger toothpaste is recommended for people prone to decay. Others may benefit from a mouth rinse. Every mouth is different, and what is ideal for one person might not be right for another.
Even though fluoride is not a new discovery, it remains one of the most reliable tools available for keeping teeth healthy. It does not require effort or fancy equipment. It quietly does its work, strengthening and supporting your teeth every day, which means fewer problems over time and better oral health overall. For something so small and simple, it makes a remarkable difference.
If you have any questions or concerns about fluoride toothpastes, our dentists will be able to offer advice. For this and for appointments etc, please call the Rushey Green Dental Practice on 020 8314 5066.
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