What is fluoride and how does it help our teeth? Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly released from rocks into the soil, air, and water all around us. When we ingest fluoride, it gets incorporated into our bones and teeth and helps make us stronger. There are decades worth of research showing the essential role fluoride plays in maintaining and improving oral health. When fluoride is incorporated into our teeth, it helps to rebuild areas that have become weaker due to a multitude of factors including diet and hygiene practices and decreases our chances of developing cavities.
In most areas of the United States, fluoride levels in water are monitored and adjusted, if needed, to an optimal level of .7ppm. This level was chosen after years of research and evidence of the effectiveness community water fluoridation has in our society. In fact, the CDC has named community water fluoridation ‘one of the 10 greatest public health achievements in the 20th century.’ It is a simple and cost effective strategy to help your teeth stay happy and healthy!