Jan 26 2012
Avoid Cavities By Drinking More Tap Water
These days, it’s not uncommon to see people walking around with store-brand water in bottles. In fact, it’s easy to grab-and-go for both busy adults and children. Water is good for you, and water bottles are quick ways to get it. But, did you know that tap water may help you stay clear of the dentist’s drill? And, that’s good news.
Today, tooth decay affects children in the United States more than any other chronic infectious disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention even states that tooth decay, if left untreated, can cause pain and infections that hinder eating, speaking, playing and learning. Because of this, the controlled addition of a fluoride compound to public water supplies is considered to be the best and most cost effective way to prevent cavities and fight tooth decay. But are you getting it? If you or your family are drinking water in bottles that does not contain fluoride, then most likely not
How does fluoride work?
Fluoride makes the entire tooth structure resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which helps in repairing early decay before damage sets in. In fact, close to 150 million United States residents in more than 10,000 communities drink fluoridated tap water. This “benefit” provides an automatic defense against the harmful matter that causes oral health problems.
No one likes to get their tooth drilled to fix cavities and simply drinking more water that is fluoridated either in the store bottle or or a reusable water bottle or glass is a great way to make sure you get this extra cavity fighting power.
But, if you can’t get the fluoride in the water, what can you do? You may want to ask your dentist about varnish. Varnish, applied quickly and easily by a dentist, is one of the most concentrated products available commercially. Varnishes that contain sodium fluoride adhere to tooth surfaces when saliva is present, providing an excellent fluoride treatment.
If you suspect that you have a cavity, don’t wait. You should visit a general dentist, such as our office — Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa. Also, tell you family dentist if you don’t know whether your water is fluoridated. It will help your dentist determine if you are not getting enough fluoride to fight cavities and treatments that may remedy this.
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