The Importance of fluoride

  • Published
  • By Capt. Maria Janjua
  • 509th Medical Operations Squadron
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  (Editor's note: The author is a Doctor of Dental Medicine) 

Fluoride is a natural occurring mineral in all water sources. This mineral is effective in preventing and reversing the early signs of tooth decay. Enamel, the hardest substance in the body, is the outermost layer of teeth and benefits from this mineral. Fluoride can achieve its decay-preventive effects through several ways. 

Teeth are more resistant to acid attack when the tooth structure is made stronger with Fluoride. Acid is formed when bacteria in plaque break down sugars and carbohydrates from food. Repeated acid attacks break down the tooth causing cavities. 

Fluoride can also repair or re-mineralize areas in which acid attacks have already begun. The re-mineralization effect of fluoride is important because it reverses the early decay process and creates a tooth surface that is more resistant to decay. 

Fluoride is obtained in two forms: topical and systemic. Topical fluorides strengthen teeth already present in the mouth making them more decay resistant. Topical fluorides include toothpastes, mouth rinses and professionally applied fluoride therapies. 

Systemic fluorides are those that are ingested into the body and become incorporated into forming tooth structures. Systemic fluorides can also give topical protection because fluoride is present in saliva, which continually bathes the teeth. Systemic fluorides include water fluoridation or dietary fluoride supplements in the form of tablets, drops or lozenges. 

Because of the widespread availability of various sources of fluoride, decay rates in the U.S. have greatly diminished. Currently the water supply on Whiteman is appropriately fluoridated, so there is no need for additional dietary supplementation. People living in communities outside of Whiteman should check with their dentist or local health department to see if the community water is fluoridated. 

In May 2001, the U.S. Surgeon General's office revealed that tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease. Because of this, millions of school hours are lost each year to dental-related diseases. This can be prevented with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits to maintain good oral health.