Caries (cavities) used to be a fact of life. However, during the past few decades, tooth decay has been reduced dramatically. The key reason: fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that may occur naturally in all drinking water sources—oceans, lakes, rivers and underground water - and the food we eat. In the 1940's, scientists began to notice that children who lived in places where fluoride occurred naturally in the water, had fewer dental cavities. Since then, extensive research has shown that optimal levels of fluoride not only reduce caries in children and adults, but also help repair the early stages of tooth decay. Fluoride that is absorbed by your body is used by the cells that build your teeth to make stronger enamel. Topical fluoride - fluoride that is applied to the outside of the enamel - makes the crystals that form enamel more durable. Tooth enamel crystals that have fluoride are much more resistant to acid. They are less likely to breakdown and cause the tooth surface to become porous.

If your dentist recommends a fluoride treatment during your next dental visit, you'll be receiving topical protection. The fluoride your dentist puts in your mouth will help make the crystals in your tooth enamel stronger. Always use a toothpaste with fluoride. Look for the American or Canadian Dental Association seal of approval on the toothpaste tube in your bathroom.

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