Fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found in water sources across the globe. When swallowed or applied to the teeth, fluoride helps prevent cavities in children and adults by making the outer surface of teeth more resistant to the acid attacks that cause tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, tooth decay is effectively prevented by a combination of both systemic fluoride and topical fluoride applications.
Systemic Fluoride
As children, before teeth break through the gums, the fluoride taken in from foods, beverages, and supplements makes tooth enamel (the hard surface of the tooth) stronger. In addition, the fluoride you take in from foods and beverages continues to provide a topical benefit because it becomes part of your saliva, constantly bathing the teeth with tiny amounts of fluoride that help rebuild weakened tooth enamel.
Topical Fluoride
When applied to the surface of teeth, the fluoride in toothpaste and other dental products helps rebuild weakened tooth enamel and reverses early signs of tooth decay.
Systemic Fluoride
As children, before teeth break through the gums, the fluoride taken in from foods, beverages, and supplements makes tooth enamel (the hard surface of the tooth) stronger. In addition, the fluoride you take in from foods and beverages continues to provide a topical benefit because it becomes part of your saliva, constantly bathing the teeth with tiny amounts of fluoride that help rebuild weakened tooth enamel.
- Public drinking water—Cities and towns that have community-fluoridated water adjust the level of existing, naturally-occurring fluoride in their public drinking water to an optimal level for oral health. More than 100 leading health organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), Massachusetts Dental Society, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Medical Association, World Health Organization, and American Cancer Society, recognize the public health benefits of community water fluoridation for preventing dental decay.
- Fluoride supplements—Fluoride tablets or drops are available by prescription for those who do not have fluoridated drinking water.
Topical Fluoride
When applied to the surface of teeth, the fluoride in toothpaste and other dental products helps rebuild weakened tooth enamel and reverses early signs of tooth decay.
- Fluoridated toothpastes & mouthwashes
- Prescription-strength products—These may be prescribed for people who are at a higher risk of decay, like those with a previous history of tooth decay or certain medical conditions, such as dry mouth.
- Fluoride varnish—A gel is “painted” directly onto the tooth surface. It may be applied at a dental or medical visit.
Additional Resources
CDC Massachusetts Water Fluoridation Reports
Fluoridated Communities in Massachusetts
ADA Fluoride Resource Homepage
ADA MouthHealthy Fluoride Information
CDC Fluoridation Overview and Data