Minnesota Family Dentistry New Hope MN
It is important to note that tooth decay is caused by dental plaque, a thin, sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. When sugar and other carbohydrates are eaten, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack the tooth enamel break down, and cavity (hole) is formed, there are a number of factors that increase an individual’s risk for tooth decay.
- Recent history of dental decay
- Elevated oral bacteria count
- Inadequate exposure to fluorides
- Exposed roots
- Frequent intake of sugar and sugary foods.
- Poor or inadequate oral hygiene
- Decrease flow of saliva
- Deep pits and fissures in the chewing surfaces of teeth.
Fluoride Information For A Healthy Mouth
Exposure to fluoride is not the only measure available to decrease the risk of decay. In formulating a decay prevention programs, a number of intervention strategies may be recommended such as changes on diet and placement of dental sealants. However, fluoride is a key component in any recommended strategy.
About Fluoride
Q. What is Fluoride?
A. Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound that can help prevent dental decay.
Q. How does fluoride help prevent dental decay?
A. Fluoride protects teeth in two ways-systemically and topically.
Q. What is water fluoridation?
A. Water fluoridation is the adjustment of the natural fluoride concentration of fluoride-deficient water to the level recommended for optimal health.
Q. How much fluoride is in your water?
A. Your water comes from public community water supply, the options to learn the fluoride level of the water include contacting the local water supplier or the local/county/state health department, reviewing your Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) and using the internet based “My water’s fluoride.” If your water source is a private well, it will need to be tested and the results obtained from a certified laboratory.
Q. What additives are used to fluoridate water supple in the United States?
A. Sodium fluorosilicate and fluorosilicic acid are the three additives approved for community water fluoridation in the United States. Sodium fluorosilicate and fluorosilicic acid are sometimes referred to as silicofluoride additives.
Q. With other forms of fluorides now available, is water fluoridation still an effective method for preventing dental decay?
A. Although other forms of fluoride are available, persons in non-fluoridated communities continue to demonstrate higher dental decay rates than their counterparts in communities with water fluoridation.
Ask your dental hygienist to recommend oral health questions and products that are specially formulated for your oral health care needs. Prevention is the key; discuss any questions or concerns you have about oral health as part of total health with your Minnesota Family dental hygienist.