When it comes to mysteries of dental care, one of the topics that tends to come up again and again is: What to make of fluoride? Patients have a general understanding that it’s necessary but then they go home and hear a variety of myths and rumors that lead to confusion. To get everything straight, we encourage you to look over some questions (and answers)! For any other questions, please remember to ask us during your upcoming checkup.

Questions and Answers

Question: Should I be using toothpaste with fluoride in it? Or not? I hear conflicting things all the time from different sources.

Answer: Yes, you should be using toothpaste that is fluoridated. When you skip this essential mineral, you leave your teeth much more vulnerable to tooth decay and to weakening. Brushing with fluoridated paste twice daily is extremely beneficial.

Question: How do I know if I’m getting enough fluoride or if my child is receiving enough?

Answer: If you’re drinking treated community drinking water and using fluoridated toothpaste, it’s probably sufficient. However, the only way to know for sure is to schedule checkups with our practice!

Question: Isn’t fluoride toxic? If so, why would I want to use it in my mouth every single day, twice daily? Won’t it hurt me if I end up ingesting it?

Answer: It is toxic in very large amounts if ingested. However, since you won’t be eating a tube of toothpaste any time soon, there is nothing to worry about. Daily use is perfectly safe (just remember to spit it out!).

Know Your Fluoride With Tips From Us

Learn more about how to best protect your smile by contacting us for a dental checkup. Schedule care with your Southlake, TX dentist today by calling Gregory Wright, DDS at (817) 481-7999. We gladly serve patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and surrounding areas.