Many people may be surprised to learn that their municipalities add a small amount of a chemical called fluoride to their public drinking water, and there is a vast wealth of misinformation about this naturally occurring mineral floating about the Internet as well as people’s social circles. The truth is that fluoride is safe for human consumption at these low levels and it has prevented untold millions of dental emergencies. Here’s a brief guide to why it is safe and smart to drink plenty of fluoridated water.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, rocks, soil, and many foods, and it has earned the nickname of “nature’s cavity fighter” due to its uncanny ability to strengthen teeth so they are more resistant to enamel-destroying acid. Adding small amounts of this substance to public water supplies is a cost-effective way to give teeth an added layer of protection against decay, and it is especially important for children who are at higher risk developing cavities.
Is Fluoride Safe?
Fluoride is completely safe and free of side effects when it is kept at the levels found in public water supplies. However, excessive exposure to fluoride at an early age can cause children to develop brown stains on their teeth, but, interestingly, these teeth will still enjoy fluoride’s cavity-fighting effects. Given that the levels of fluoride used in public water are quite small, this usually only happens if children are regularly drinking from natural bodies of water such as streams and creeks that are atypically high in this mineral.
What Are a Few Other Sources of Fluoride?
You can also get safe levels of fluoride from many items such as:
- Fluoridated toothpaste
- Grapes and raisins
- Seafood
- Bone meal
- Tea
- Spinach
- Gelatin
Don’t let a little misinformation get in the way of you enjoying the many oral health benefits of fluoridated water. Using this liquid as your primary beverage is a great way to stay hydrated, keep your mouth clean and lubricated, and prevent a host of nasty oral health issues.
About the Practice
San Marcos Gentle Dental offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Robert Donnelly, Andrew Gentile, and John Schneider, the staff treats each patient with courtesy, compassion, and old-fashioned customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To learn more about the benefits of fluoride, contact the office online or dial (512) 396-5225.