It’s a well known fact that fluoride is a good for teeth. The reason behind this is that fluoride aids the tooth remineralization process. Fluoride gets absorbed on to the demineralized surface. Fluoride then in turn attracts other minerals like Calcium, thus speeding up the rate of remineralization. Fluoride is also present in saliva and hence, other sources which can provide Fluoride like using a fluoride rich toothpaste aids in the remineralization process and fights tooth decay.
Fluoride not only promotes the tooth’s remineralization but also helps create a tooth surface that is more resistant to tooth decay. The tooth mineral that is created by the remineralization process is comparatively harder than when the tooth initially formed. Teeth are generally composed of the minerals – hydroxyapatite and carbonated hydroxyapatite. Presence of fluoride creates fluorapatite. Fluorapatite is comparatively more resistant to damage caused by acids. Also, fluoride disrupts the bacteria’s ability to metabolize sugars. An interesting observation is that it is better to eat one large dessert, once a day, than three little pieces of candy over the course of the whole day?
Dental fluorosis is evidenced by tooth staining and is caused by excessive ingestion of fluoride during early childhood. The vast majority of dental fluorosis is a mild form, characterized by the appearance of chalky-white lines or opaque-white patches in a tooth’s enamel. More severe forms of fluorosis, though less common, are characterized by yellow or brown discoloration of the teeth. Ingestion of fluoride toothpaste by small children (upto age 6) is a common cause of dental fluorosis. Hence, it is advised that non fluoride toothpaste be used in case of small children. Limiting sugary food for children is also recommended.
Always try to look for the ADA (American Dental Association) “Seal of Approval.” when buying fluoride toothpastes. This is because there is only a thin line between good effects and adverse effects. Also, regular checkups and visits to the dentist are a necessity for everyone, and nothing can substitute the professional opinion of one who has actually seen your teeth over the years.
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=3a8d7a7e-4678-4a8e-b48a-2231e2d48da0)