Everything You Should Know About Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that is present in the environment. It is also added to water supply, toothpaste and mouthwash to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride supplements can prevent tooth decay in children and adults.
Fluoride has a beneficial effect on the teeth through direct contact and also protects the developing teeth (which are still under the gums) from the possible development of carries. Fluoride works in two ways, by preventing excessive bacterial growth and tooth mineralization. In this article, we will tell you the benefits of fluoride.
Table of Contents
Health Benefits of Fluoride
Regular and proper fluoride intake is beneficial for our oral health.
It prevents bacterial overgrowth
Fluoride reduces the overgrowth of certain bacteria, which may cause tooth decay(1). Fluoride, which is an ionic element, lowers the pH level in the mouth. It means that the environment in the mouth becomes more acidic and therefore less hospitable to bacteria. Fluoride inhibits Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Porphyromonas gingivalis.
It mineralizes teeth
Fluoride(2) interacts with teeth and forms a material called fluorapatite, which mineralizes teeth. Mineralization is a chemical curing process and it prevents tooth demineralization. You should also know that although fluorapatite is not a natural component of teeth, it is beneficial and doesn’t harm the teeth. The mineralization caused by fluoride supplements also helps teeth resist decay that can be caused by food, beverages, and bacteria.
Read: Foods that Damage Teeth
Possible side effects
It is not recommended to take more than 10 mg of fluoride per day. The effect of excess fluoride varies depending on the amount of fluoride exposure and whether it occurs chronically, over a long period of time, or abruptly.
Chronically high levels of fluoride can affect both teeth and bones. However, acute consumption of large amounts of fluoride can lead to more dangerous side effects.
