Although water, many foods, and some oral healthcare products contain fluoride, it often isn’t enough to help your teeth be as healthy as possible. Some people have heard misinformation and ask our dentists “Is fluoride bad for you?” It definitely is not. The reason this rumor persists is that fluoride can cause health problems if ingested in extremely high doses. However, an averaged size adult would need to drink at least 5,000 glasses of water with added fluoride to feel this effect. Fluoride can also cause temporary discoloration of baby teeth when too much is applied, but the staff at Smiles of Naperville is careful not to let this happen.

The Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

When we recommend this treatment to pediatric patients, their parents sometimes wonder why fluoride treatment is needed. Because most people don’t get the fluoride they need, regular supplements help to fight against tooth decay from an early age. Many adults can also benefit from fluoride treatments under certain circumstances. We typically recommend fluoride drops for infants and toddlers and tablets for older children, teenagers, and adults. It guards against tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and fortifying the teeth. Having stronger enamel means that your teeth are better able to fight the effects of acid and bacteria. It also makes it more difficult for plaque to stick to the teeth.

Even when you brush your teeth twice daily, floss regularly, and visit us for a professional cleaning twice a year, it isn’t always enough. If you’re wondering how you prevent dental problems besides doing all of these things, consider adding a fluoride supplement to your oral healthcare routine. We will describe exactly how the process works when you visit us for your next appointment. Our dentists may also recommend one or more dental sealants for maximum protection.