I’ve got to admit, my mind hasn’t been as focused as well as normal on this week’s article because of the tragedy and aftermath of Katrina.  It has been wonderful to see the outpouring of compassion from so many in our country and community, but at the same time heartbreaking to see the devastation that has occurred.  I ask that you continue not only to earnestly pray for those who have been victims but also continue the outpouring of love and generosity that has been shown thus far.

OK, off my soap box and on to the article!  One of the things most people have heard about at the dentist is fluoride, but do they really understand what it is and how it should be used?  Fluoride is a natural mineral that is easily absorbed into the surface of a tooth.  It has been found to strengthen teeth that have been weakened by tooth decay and to prevent tooth decay from occurring in the first place.  When fluoride is absorbed into a weakened tooth, it helps rebuild the outer layer of tooth structure (enamel) to a more stable and durable condition. 

According to the American Dental Association, water fluoridation can reduce the amount of cavities children get in their baby teeth by as much as 60% and the amount adults get in their permanent teeth by nearly 35%.  But unfortunately, one-third of all publicly supplied tap water and 95% of bottled waters do not contain any fluoride.  There are communities in our surrounding area that do not have fluoridated public water supplies.  Regrettably, it is typically very evident in patient’s who live in these areas because of the increased amount of decay present in their mouths.

If you are someone who predominantly drinks bottled water, does it contain fluoride?  As I mentioned above, there is a 95% chance it doesn’t.  A majority of people (54%) who drink bottled water understand that it doesn’t contain fluoride, but a large percentage is not sure.  This becomes critical especially when it comes to younger children whose teeth are developing.  If they drink strictly bottled water, they may not be getting adequate fluoride protection.  Remember though, often children on bottled water do get tap water in juices that are mixed at home, school water fountains, etc.  Bottled water is fine (I actually drink a lot of it), but just make sure there is an adequate intake of fluoridated water from some source.

Fluoride occurs naturally in some water sources.  West Texas is notorious for excessive naturally occurring amounts of fluoride in the water.  Too much fluoride in the water will permanently discolor a patient’s teeth.  The teeth will be hard as rocks, but can look like rocks as well!  Typically there isn’t a lot that occurs naturally in the water in our area.  If you are on well water it would be appropriate to have the water tested.  Fluoride supplementation in younger children is often appropriate if well water is the predominant source utilized for drinking.

Proper daily use of a fluoride toothpaste and fluoride rinses are a great way to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.  A fluoride rinse is not recommended in children under the age of six who are apt to inadvertently swallow it.  To assure your child’s teeth are protected from decay, your dentist is likely to recommend in-office fluoride treatments.  I also utilize these treatments in adults.  They are wonderful for patients who are prone to tooth decay, show signs of enamel weakness or are prevention oriented.  Fluoride has been a great adjunct to the prevention of decay and makes dentists jobs a lot easier!