Is Essential Fluoride in Bottled Water?–Dentist for Geneva Responds

In elementary school, were you required to swish with fluoride treatments? Dr. Lodding’s experience as a dentist serving Geneva and area has confirmed for him just how important fluoride is in protecting dental health. Why? How do you obtain it?

What exactly does fluoride do for you? Plaque is a sticky, clear film that’s constantly forming on your teeth. Each time you eat and drink sugary or starchy foods, the sugars and plaque mix together to make an acid. The acids in your mouth then attack your tooth enamel (the hard outer layer of each tooth) and try to cause decay. Each acid attack can last 20 minutes, making cavities larger and larger. Don’t imagine it’s a hopeless battle though, because if you’ve been receiving fluoride it’ll come to the rescue by strengthening and protecting your tooth enamel from attacking acid. Consequently, you’ll be a step ahead in cavity prevention.

The American Dental Association continues to endorse fluoridation of community water supplies as a safe and effective way for the public to receive essential amounts of tooth protecting fluoride. They feel it continues to reduce tooth decay by at least 20-40%, even in an era where fluoride toothpaste is widely available.

What if you don’t drink “tap water”? Can the consistent use of bottled water result in missing the benefits of fluoridation? Released by the American Dental Association, the publication Fluoridation Facts comments: “Yes. The majority of bottled waters on the market do not contain optimal levels (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride.” Therefore, it may be quite possible your teeth are not as protected as you think they are!

Using a fluoride toothpaste will help prevent cavities, but if you’re in the habit of consuming only bottled water with less than the recommended fluoride levels, be sure to mention this at your next dental visit. Dr. Lodding, our dentist serving Geneva and surrounding areas, will ensure your smile receives the attention it deserves!