Dear Patients, I regularly get asked about the benefits of fluoride, and occasionally about the risks of fluoride. Fluoride has long been recognized as a critical component in dental health, and the Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB) has played a significant role in advocating for its benefits and safety. In this brief post I discuss the advantages of fluoride and addresses the question of its safety as supported by the ADAVB.

The Benefits of Fluoride:

  1. Strengthening Tooth Enamel: Fluoride’s most prominent role is its ability to strengthen tooth enamel. Enamel is the protective outer layer of teeth, and when fluoride incorporates into it, it becomes more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars. This fortification makes teeth less susceptible to decay.
  2. Dental Decay Prevention: Fluoride’s efficacy in preventing dental caries has been the subject of extensive research. Studies consistently show that individuals exposed to optimal levels of fluoride, such as through fluoridated water and fluoride toothpaste, experience significantly lower rates of tooth decay.
  3. Community Water Fluoridation: One of the most successful public health measures has been community water fluoridation. The ADAVB, among other dental organizations, strongly endorses this practice. It involves adjusting the fluoride content in public water supplies to reach an optimal concentration for dental health, effectively benefiting entire communities.

Safety and Efficacy:

The safety and efficacy of fluoride have been well-documented. The ADAVB, in alignment with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guidelines, maintains that fluoride is safe when used at recommended levels and is highly effective in preventing tooth decay.

The NHMRC advises on the use of fluoride for the prevention of dental caries, emphasising the importance of striking a balance to maximise benefits while minimising the risk of dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis, characterized by mild discoloration or pitting of teeth, can occur with excessive fluoride consumption during tooth development, primarily in children. However, such cases are rare and typically result from over consumption of fluoride-containing products.

The ADAVB endorses the use of fluoride as a fundamental element in dental health. Its ability to reinforce tooth enamel, coupled with its proven effectiveness in preventing tooth decay, has cemented fluoride’s status as an essential tool in oral care. When used responsibly and in accordance with recommended guidelines, fluoride is a reliable and safe ally in the pursuit of a cavity-free, healthier smile.

Whether through fluoridated water, toothpaste, or professional treatments, controlled fluoride exposure can help maintain oral health and minimise the risk of dental caries, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more robust smile.

 

Cristina

 

Information for all our patients in Surrey Hills, Mont Albert, Mont Albert North, Balwyn, North Balwyn, Canterbury, Box Hill, Box Hill South, Box Hill North, Camberwell, Hawthorn and surrounding areas.