Fluoride is one of our best defenses

For many years we have been blessed to have the majority of our local community water supplies treated with low levels of fluoride. The impact that this has on the health of our children’s teeth is well documented. When the tooth enamel is forming, long before the tooth pokes through the gums, the fluoride ion ingested by drinking the water becomes part of the tooth and renders the enamel much more acid resistant. This results in fewer cavities forming. Unfortunately, the level of fluoride in the water is not at a level that provides a topical protection for fully formed teeth already in the mouth. To protect these teeth, we use a professionally applied topical fluoride varnish, and we recommend the use of fluoride rinses and toothpastes. We are strong advocates of preventive measures to keep your oral condition healthy, and fluoride is one of the most effective means of doing so.