If you ask ordinary people what they think about fluoride and dental care, you’ll get a lot of conflicting answers. But if you ask a dentist at Smile Boutique Dental, you’ll get the facts. There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about fluoride and dental care, but we’re here to help you sort the facts from the fiction so you can feel confident that you’re getting the best dental care in Massachusetts.
Fluoride is important to oral health and Massachusetts dental care. Join us as we debunk four common myths.
Myth 1: Fluoride is harmful and causes health issues.
The most common myth about fluoride people believe is that it’s harmful to your health. Excessive fluoride intake when your teeth are developing can cause fluorosis, but this is rare and usually a cosmetic concern that can be repaired with treatment. The levels of fluoride found in tap water and toothpaste are not high enough to cause damage to your teeth.
There have also been claims linking fluoride to cancer and other serious health problems, but extensive research does not support this claim.
Myth 2: Only children need fluoride.
While we do emphasize fluoride treatments for children, adults can also benefit from fluoride. Fluoride treatments that you get from your Massachusetts dentist as a child protect your baby teeth and strengthen your adult teeth. As an adult, fluoride in toothpaste or gel strenghtens tooth enamel and helps to prevent decay.
Myth 3: Fluoride is only effective when ingested.
Your body does absorb the fluoride you ingest through drinking water or food, but those aren’t the only ways to get the benefits. Fluoride is also in many dental products, both prescription and over-the-counter. You’ll find fluoride in toothpaste and mouthwash to help rebuild tooth enamel. Professional treatments such as fluoride gel or varnish can give your teeth some extra protection if over-the-counter products aren’t enough.
Myth 4: Natural fluoride is better than treatments.
There are several natural sources of fluoride, from foods that naturally contain it to baking soda or herbal toothpastes. While these sources of fluoride can be part of a healthy oral hygiene routine, fluoride treatments have been scientifically proven to effectively prevent cavities.
Massachusetts Fluoride Treatments | Smile Boutique
Preventative care is the best way to ensure healthy teeth. At Smile Boutique, we offer fluoride treatments in Massachusetts to supplement routine cleanings and your at-home oral hygiene routine. Contact us at 508-481-8094 to schedule an appointment today!
