What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a crucial role in dental health. It is found in various sources, including rocks, soil, water, tea, and certain grains and vegetables. Chemically, it is the ionic form of the element fluorine and is known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
When fluoride is incorporated into the structure of teeth, it enhances their resistance to tooth decay and inhibits the growth of harmful oral bacteria. As a result, it has become a common ingredient in many dental care products, such as toothpaste and mouth rinses.
In addition to topical applications, systemic fluoride exposure occurs when it is ingested through fluoridated drinking water or dietary sources. Public health initiatives have promoted water fluoridation as an effective measure to reduce dental caries in communities. However, it’s essential to balance fluoride intake since excessive exposure can lead to dental fluorosis — a condition that affects the appearance of teeth.
Understanding what fluoride is and its benefits can help individuals make informed decisions about their oral health care practices.
Fluoride in Toothpaste
To make the most of your toothpaste, brush your teeth as normal but only spit out the excess, don’t rinse. Letting the toothpaste sit on your teeth for at least 30 minutes will help the fluoride incorporate into the enamel, making it stronger and more resistant to decay.
Fluoride in Drinking Water
Fluoride has been a part of Australian drinking water since the 1960s. It is added to the water to help lower the amount of dental decay we suffer from.
Study by the National Health and Medical Research Council
Recently, the National Health and Medical Research Council undertook a study regarding the safety of fluoride in drinking water. The results showed:
- Current levels of fluoride are safe
- It is an effective way of reducing dental decay in both kids and adults
- There is no evidence to show that fluoride consumption at these levels causes cancer or thyroid dysfunction
- Fluoride in water has been endorsed by the World Health Organisation, the Australian Medical Association, the Australian Dental Association and the American Academy of Paediatrics
By adding fluoride to our water, children born from the 1970s have over half the level of dental decay that their parents’ had. A level of between 0.6 to 1.1 mg/L has been stated as the most beneficial level for our drinking water.
Learn more on the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) website about water fluoridation and human health.
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