Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods and water. Fluorides primary benefit is that it helps to prevent tooth decay by making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. It is especially important for children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years to be exposed to fluoride, since this is the time frame the primary and permanent teeth come in. Taken as a supplement, fluoride becomes incorporated into the development of the permanent teeth, making it difficult for acids to demineralize it.
Adults can benefit from fluoride as well. Research indicates that topical fluoride is also important in fighting tooth decay. Most toothpastes have fluoride in them, but for some people simply brushing will not be enough to prevent cavities. People with a history of cavities, who have crowns and bridges in their mouth, have gum disease or a dry mouth condition can all benefit from additional fluoride. This can be accomplished with prescription toothpaste that has a higher concentration of fluoride, or in-office through dentist applied fluoride gels or foams. These procedures as easy and take only a few minutes.
Nearly every large city and more than 195 million Americans receive the dental health benefits of water fluoridation. In communities with fluoridated water, rates of dental disease are dramatically lower. Nearly 72% of Americans get their water from public systems that add fluoride, but in New Jersey that number is only 14%. New Jersey ranks next to last in states that fluoridate water, ahead of only Hawaii and far behind New York at 72%, Pennsylvania at 54% and Connecticut at a whopping 90%. Because of these dismal statistics, it is vital that children living in NJ take fluoride supplements to ensure their dental health. With cavities affecting half of all first graders and close to 80% of 17 year olds, prescription fluoride vitamins along with dentist applied fluoride treatments are an easy way to keep teeth healthy. Ask your physician or dentist what is right for you.
Dr. Herbert Schneider has been recognized for his work with fellowship awards from the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Endodontic Society. He also holds a prestigious Mastership from the World Clinical Laser Institute. Dr. Rachel Jacobs joined the practice in 2006. Her calm, yet precise manner makes her a hit with both adults and children. Both doctors are certified in the uses of three different clinical lasers.
By Dr. Herbert Schneider &. Dr. Rachel Jacobs
