Whether or not you’ve heard before that fluoride is in drinking water, you’re probably wondering what it’s doing in there. After all, it sounds like a menacing compound that was cooked up in a chemistry lab!
Fortunately, there’s no cause for alarm. The origins of fluoride are far less dramatic than this sci-fi movie scenario, and it actually benefits your teeth. To learn more about the how’s and why’s, just keep reading.
Isn’t Fluoride A Chemical?
Fluoride indeed seems like something that you would find on the periodic table. In fact, that’s where you’ll see its distant cousin, fluorine. However, fluoride is actually a naturally occurring mineral. Want to guess where it likes to hang out? In water! That’s right, fluoride is already in bodies of fresh water and salt water, and even falls with rain and is absorbed by thirsty plants.
Why is Fluoride in My Tap Water?
If earth’s waters already contain trace amounts of fluoride, why do some countries add it to their drinking water supplies? To help protect your teeth from cavities. The way fluoride does this is interesting but somewhat involved; suffice it to say that it fortifies your mouth’s built-in defenses. It’s definitely more of a dental aid than a dental hazard!
Is the Fluoridation Process Harmful?
Nope – it’s simply added and mixed into your drinking water during the purification process at the water treatment plant. Some scientists compare it to vitamin-enriched products like vitamin D milk or calcium orange juice. Since fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral, it can be put into tap water pretty easily.
Other Sources of Fluoride
You can also get very small doses of fluoride from almost any vegetable, since they absorb this mineral through groundwater and rainwater. Plus, many over-the-counter toothpastes use fluoride in their mixtures. So you might be getting more fluoride than you think! However, while these sources will empower your teeth, most people need more than that to keep cavities at bay.
That’s why almost all dentists offer fluoride treatments as part of their checkup and cleaning services. When you request fluoride as part of your preventative care, they’ll thoroughly brush your teeth with a special foaming toothpaste. Once again, you can count on your dentist to have the best tools and techniques for protecting your pearly whites!
About the Author
Dr. Vy Tran wants patients to look forward to their dental appointments. She knows part of providing a positive experience is making sure you feel welcome, safe, and comfortable. When you meet Dr. Tran, she’ll win you over with her friendly nature, and build trust by listening attentively to your concerns and keeping you well-informed. If protecting your teeth is your concern, she’ll happily work with you to customize your preventative care! To contact Dr. Tran’s office with questions or to book an appointment, call 410-729-9090.