A Guide to Fluoride: What Is It, Is it Toxic, What Does it Do, and More

News, Oral Care

As one of the most tried and tested compounds of modern dental health, fluoride plays a primary protective role in the majority of our oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral, which can be found in trace amounts in a variety of foods, as well as in our soil and water.

But beyond its omnipresence in our bathrooms, how much do we really understand about fluoride? Let’s delve deeper into the science behind fluoride, its dental benefits, and why it’s considered a heavyweight in the fight against tooth decay. Ready to demystify this hero ingredient? Let’s get started.

The House Of Mouth is a leading provider of oral care products and teeth whitening products in Australia. We also offer in-chair teeth whitening, in-chair tooth gem services, as well as dental scale and cleans from our boutique studio in Burleigh Heads.

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in various amounts in nearly all freshwater and seawater sources, as well as in some foods, such as tea, coffee, shellfish, porridge, raisins, and more. It is the 13th most abundant element in the Earth’s crust and plays a crucial role in dental health due to its unique ability to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.

What Does Fluoride Do?

Tooth decay in countries with fluoridated water

This graph shows the effect of fluoride on levels of tooth decay in countries that have introduced fluoride into their drinking water. Source.

In the context of oral health, fluoride is known for strengthening tooth enamel and its role in the remineralisation process. Its use is highly recommended in both adults and children. Our teeth are constantly under attack from acids produced by bacteria in our mouth, which dissolve the minerals in the tooth enamel, leading to what is commonly known as tooth decay or cavities. Fluoride helps to reverse this process by replenishing the lost calcium and phosphorus and creating a stronger, more acid-resistant form of enamel.

This versatile mineral is the active ingredient in most kinds of toothpaste and is also added to some municipal water supplies – a process known as water fluoridation. The primary goal of water fluoridation and the use of fluoride in dental products is to prevent tooth decay. It has been extensively studied and is considered safe and effective for this purpose by many major health organisations worldwide.

Is Fluoride Good for Teeth?

Yes, absolutely. Fluoride is one of the most tried and tested minerals and is proven to be good for teeth. It has been recognised as an essential mineral in the fight against dental caries, a condition caused by carie-causing bacteria in the mouth that ferment foods, produce acids, and subsequently dissolve tooth enamel.

This tooth decay, if left untreated, can lead to pain, tooth loss, infections, growth impairment, and even life-threatening conditions. Fluoride acts as a protective shield against this decay by inhibiting the activity of bacteria and the demineralisation process while enhancing the remineralisation of teeth.

For adults, evidence also suggests that fluoride intake through drinking water can be beneficial. Observational studies in Australia have shown lower rates of decayed, missing, or filled teeth in adults exposed to fluoridated water for a significant portion of their lives compared to those who had minimal exposure.

Is Fluoride Toxic?

Fluoride, like many substances, can potentially have toxic effects if consumed in excessively high quantities. However, at the recommended levels found in drinking water or dental products, fluoride is generally safe and significantly beneficial for dental health. Humans would typically need to consume much higher amounts of fluoride than currently recommended to reach the toxic levels that show adverse effects.

So don’t go eating toothpaste like ice cream, but rest assured that the amount of fluoride in the water combined with that found in your food and the minimal amount ingested through your oral care products is safe!

Does Fluoride Whiten Teeth?

While fluoride has many oral health benefits, it does not have inherent teeth whitening properties.

However, because fluoride helps maintain healthy enamel, it indirectly contributes to the overall appearance of your teeth. Healthy tooth enamel is naturally white, so by strengthening and protecting it, fluoride can help maintain your teeth’s natural brightness.

If you’re interested in noticeably whitening your teeth, other dental treatments such as professional teeth whitening procedures or the use of whitening toothpastes and products would be more effective. These products typically contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide that can help remove surface stains and discolouration. As always, it’s best to consult with a dental professional before starting any new dental treatment.

Do Water Filters Remove Fluoride?

Whether a water filter can remove fluoride largely depends on the type of filter being used. Here is an overview of common types of water filters and their ability to remove fluoride:

1. Activated alumina filters: These are highly effective at removing fluoride. They work by chemically reacting with the fluoride to create aluminium fluoride, which is then trapped in the filter.

2. Reverse osmosis filters: Reverse osmosis (RO) systems can remove fluoride. They work by pushing water through a semi-permeable membrane that filters out contaminants including fluoride.

3. Deionisation filters: Deionisation can remove fluoride. It’s a process that uses ion-exchange resins to remove ionised salts from water.

4. Distillation filters: Distillation is a process that can effectively remove fluoride from water. It involves heating water to boiling point, then collecting and condensing the steam, which doesn’t contain fluoride.

However, some other types of water filters, such as activated carbon filters (commonly used in pitcher filters and refrigerator filters), do not typically remove fluoride.

It’s important to remember that while fluoride has been linked to dental health benefits, if you’re considering removing it from your drinking water, it may be best to consult a healthcare provider or a dental professional to ensure you are still getting adequate fluoride for dental health. Also, always check the specific details of any water filter to see what contaminants it can remove before making a decision.

Take Care of Your Teeth with the House of Mouth

Fluoride’s role in dental health cannot be overstated. It’s a powerful tool in the fight against tooth decay and plays an essential part in maintaining the strength and resilience of our tooth enamel. But remember, fluoride is just one part of the picture. Achieving and maintaining excellent oral health requires a holistic approach that combines regular dental check-ups, a balanced diet, and an effective daily oral hygiene routine.

At The House of Mouth, we understand the importance of a comprehensive oral care. We’re dedicated to helping you maintain your best oral health and brightest smile with our extensive range of professional-grade oral care products. Whether you’re looking for fluoride toothpaste or exploring teeth whitening options, we’ve got you covered. All our products are handpicked, widely recommended, and used by dental practitioners worldwide.

Our goal is to support you in your oral health journey, and we’re here to provide you with the tools and knowledge you need. So, continue to smile confidently, knowing that The House of Mouth is your partner in dental health and hygiene. Remember, a healthier mouth leads to a happier life!