Fluoride helps keep teeth healthy Published June 5, 2009 By 72nd Dental Clinic TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Getting necessary vitamins and minerals is vital to staying healthy. Fluoride -- one of those minerals -- is needed to maintain healthy teeth. Studies show that 85 percent of adults have had a cavity, so the proper use of fluoride, a naturally occurring element that helps prevent cavities, is important. Fluoride can be incorporated into teeth while they are developing and once those teeth are exposed in the mouth, the fluoride helps repair cavities that are just starting. When sugar-containing foods and drinks are consumed, acid attacks and the fluoride helps to counter the attack. While fluoride helps prevent cavities throughout life and benefits both adults and children, too much fluoride can be bad. It is important to follow a doctor's recommendation. There are many different forms of fluoride available. The right delivery method depends on the individual. Water fluoridation, fluoridated toothpaste, fluoride mouthwash, fluoride tablets, and professionally applied fluoride are all commonly used methods. Each of these methods is described below: Water fluoridation: Studies have shown that when water is fluoridated at optimal levels it can reduce the amount of cavities by 60 percent in children and 35 percent in adults. Even with other forms of fluoride available, areas with fluoridated water have lower rates of cavities. Tinker's water supply is fluoridated according to Environmental Protection Agency standards and American Dental Association recommendations. The fluoride levels are measured on a monthly basis by the 72nd Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight. Water filters used at home can decrease the fluoride level decreasing the benefits of fluoride. Fluoridated toothpaste: All people over the age of 2 can benefit from the use of a fluoridated toothpaste. Only a pea size amount of toothpaste is needed, and young children should be monitored while brushing. Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride helps remineralize teeth and strengthen them to protect against future acid attacks that cause cavities. Fluoride mouthwash: Fluoride rinses are an additional source of fluoride for individuals older than age 6 who are prone to cavities. To allow the fluoride to work effectively, drinks and food should be avoided for 30 minutes. Fluoride tablets are available for children who live in areas where the water is not fluoridated. It is a prescription and should be taken as recommended. Professionally applied fluoride -- in foams, gels and varnish -- is a higher concentration than that available to individuals. For children and adults prone to cavities, it has been shown effective in remineralizing teeth to help protect against future cavities. For more information, call the 72nd Dental Clinic at 736-2000 or visit the ADA Web site at www.ada.org.