Fluoride

Fluoride is nature’s cavity fighter. It occurs naturally in many water supplies and does more to prevent tooth decay than any other measure.

You are most at risk for cavities during childhood, adolescence and later adult years. If you have had tooth decay in the last three years, or if you have two or more risk factors for decay, it is recommended that you have at least two professionally applied fluoride treatments each year.

Tooth decay risk factors include:

• not flossing daily
• not brushing effectively
• consuming sugar between meals
• existing fillings
• gastric reflux
• dry mouth (over 400 medications can cause reduced saliva)
• eating highly acidic (sour) foods
• orthodontic treatment
• exposed root surfaces (receding gums)
• inadequate fluoride as a child
• non-fluoridated water

Most water supplies in Central Pennsylvania are not fluoridated. Fluoride from more than one source provides better cavity protection.