The Truth About Fluoride!

Our Lexington, KY dentist’s office is especially big on preventive dentistry. Here’s why: we think it makes more sense to help you prevent bad things from ever happening in your mouth rather than attempting to treat them later when it is more painful and costly to do so. That’s why, today, we want to talk about fluoride. We also want to look at one possible reason why so many folks in the Bluegrass are missing out on its benefits–namely by drinking bottled water. Keep reading to see what we are talking about and then be sure to schedule your next preventive dentistry visit with Dr. Takacs!
The Government Cares About Your Health
It is important to find a way to incorporate fluoride into your program of preventive dentistry because fluoride forms a protective barrier over your teeth’s enamel. This barrier directly thwarts the attacks of the bacteria that is responsible for causing tooth decay.
Here’s a history lesson for you. Until the midpoint of the last century, the oral health of the average U.S. citizen was abysmal. And it was noticeable to anyone who cared enough to pay attention. That’s why this country took on an audacious project that focused on the fluoridation of public water in an attempt to lower the rates of tooth decay.
This easy access to fluoride is something we take for granted now, but it was a pretty big deal back then. Ever since this water-infusion process first began, all over America, the incidence of cavities has been significantly lowered, decade after decade. That fact is definitely something to cheer about. That said, strangely, in recent years, the data suggests that this positive trend could be changing for the worse. Which leaves dentists asking: why?
The Bottle Let Us Down
Don’t worry, we aren’t talking about bottles of Kentucky Ale or Talon’s Equestrian Series wine! And you might find this hard to believe but this recent rise in reported tooth decay appears to be correlated to our increased consumption of bottled water in the last decade or two.
That leads us to another question: how does water cause cavities? Well, it doesn’t. We aren’t saying that the water in the bottles is creating cavities. But the more you are conditioned to drink bottled water, the less you will consume tap water. And it is our tap water that was engineered to prevent cavities with all the fluoride it now contains.
Here’s the thing: convenience is king, right? And bottled water is so easy to come by and fairly cheap to purchase. And it certainly feels healthy compared to sugary sodas or sports drinks. Many people in neighboring counties buy bottled water for their families based on the popular misconception that tap water is polluted, while bottled water is natural. Some folks even convince themselves that bottled water tastes better. Truth be told, public water companies are held accountable for following safety guidelines regarding tap water. It is the bottled water manufacturers that are not regulated in this way. And, to us at least, water tastes like water.
Look, we aren’t saying it is wrong to drink bottled water. When you are out and about, it may well be your best option. And there are some great companies close by, like Highbridge Springs for example, who give back to the local community. All we are saying is that we want you to think about what you might be missing out on, that’s all.
Consider this: the good people at the American Dental Association have stated that simply by drinking more tap water, Americans can benefit from cavity protection whether they are at home, work or school. What’s more, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention named community water fluoridation as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century. Take our word for it, you wouldn’t want to go back to the way things were before. Your oral health is far too important for that.
Beaumont Family Dentistry Is Here To Help!
To make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy and clean, drink plenty of tap water, and rinse with a fluoride mouthwash when possible. And don’t forget to schedule your regular visits to our Bluegrass area dentist’s office for teeth cleanings, oral examinations, and fluoride treatments.
Contact us online today to make your next preventive appointment!