03 March 2015
The Case of Bad Teeth: Why Fluoride Matters
Only about 10% of water supplies in England have natural fluoride content. In these areas, there is a noticeable decrease in the number of children with tooth decay. Public Health England released a study saying this highlights the importance of water fluoridation in a child’s dental health and general wellbeing, especially how much it benefits the children in the most deprived areas of the country.
Dental surgeons across England are calling for water fluoridation to grow in scope and be in effect across the country. The most recent report on tooth decay cases reveal that almost a third of five-year-olds are suffering from dental caries, linked to consumption of sugary or acidic food and drink. Dental surgeons are hoping to witness a decrease in this number through water fluoridation.
This is no longer a new cause. During the early 1930s, scientists found that people who were brought up in areas across Europe with naturally fluoridated water had up to two-thirds fewer cavities compared to those who lived in areas where the water was not fluoridated. However, non-water fluoridated areas in Europe did not find that their incidences of dental cavities increased, either. For example, Germany and Finland’s decay rates remained stable and unaffected.
Fluoride intake is critical for infants and children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years, as this is when the primary and permanent teeth are coming out. It protects the teeth in two ways. First, it offers protection from demineralisation caused by acid. Then, if there is already some damage to teeth caused by acid, fluoride accumulates in the demineralised areas and begins strengthening the enamel, a process called remineralisation.
It is extremely useful in preventing cavities and making teeth stronger, even for adults. Fluoride can help provide an environment for better enamel quality formation and reduce the bacteria’s ability to produce acid.
The move to mandate water fluoridation across all of the UK won the support of the British Dental Association. However, itis currently earning the scorn of some academics and health-enthusiasts because of its possible health hazards.
Still, the best way to keep your oral health in check is to consult with your dentist regularly for professional advice. Here at Church Road Dental, we offer only the most advanced dental treatments including teeth whitening, smile makeovers, dental crowns among our other general and cosmetic dental services.
Visit us today to learn how you can keep your teeth healthier and stronger.
