Month: January 2022

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toothpaste on toothbrush

Are you looking for options to restore your lost teeth with a fixed dental bridge, are you wondering about how you care for your new dental restoration? Getting a new, healthy smile at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry can be very exciting and a big confidence enhancer. 

If you want to save a beautiful new smile, you need to learn the right ways to take care of your dental bridge and consult Lane DDS for regular checkups.

How to Take Care of Dental Bridges?

Did you know that if a patient has a dental bridge, he or she must be aware of what it takes to take care of the dental restoration? What to do and what to avoid doing while having dental bridges. That is why the dental experts at the Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, have prepared some of the tips to help make dental bridges last: 

  • Practicing good oral hygiene is vital. The most common concern to dental bridges is tooth decay. Food particles can impact the teeth or the dental bridge. Once the cavity sets in, it eats away the natural teeth and the dental bridge making them loose.
  • Eating good food benefits the body as well as oral health
  • Visit the dentist at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry regularly. Getting the bridges examined for chips and cracks leads to the early diagnosis of problems
  • Patients having dental bridges are recommended by Lane DDS to go for a dental check-up twice a year
  • Pressure during chewing and biting should be reduced because dental bridges are prosthetic devices
  • Avoid crunchy food, and sticky food if you have a dental bridge

How To Clean Permanent Bridges?

Dental bridges should be treated as natural teeth and cleaned in the same way. There are a few pieces of advice the dentists provide to the patients for cleaning a dental bridge:

  • Brush the dental bridge with a soft-bristled toothbrush and cool water
  • Avoid using abrasive household cleaners or toothpaste, which may scratch the bridge’s surface
  • Rinse with cool, clean water

Can Food Get Under Dental Bridges?

Remember that a dental bridge is a “floating” prosthetic tooth that’s attached to two dental crowns on either side. Since there’s a space under the dental bridge, food can get impacted under or around a bridge.

It’s vital to get regular check-ups by your dentist to make sure your dental bridge is fitting well. To remove the food debris, it’s significant to carry interdental brushes and/or floss threaders with you. A simple tip would be simply swishing the water around several times during a meal.

purple mouthwash

Can You Use Mouthwash With A Bridge?

Did you know that flossing helps you maintain strong and healthy gums, which help the bridge last if possible? Along with flossing Rinsing with mouthwash once a day with fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash can help keep your dental bridge clean.

Does Dental Bridge Smell?

If a patient has an Ill-fitting bridge, it can leave spaces for food to get caught in. The food under the dental bridge can lead to bad breath and gum disease due to the presence of bacteria.

What To Avoid Eating With Dental Bridges?

The experienced dentists at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry explain to the patients to avoid foods and drinks to maintain the good health of dental bridges.  The foods that should be avoided while having dental bridges are as follow:

Gum, Caramel, and Sticky Foods

Chewing sticky foods like caramel, gum and candy possess the greatest chances for causing damage to dental bridges. Especially if the dental bridge is newly cemented and has not perfectly attached with adjacent supporting teeth.

Sticky foods like caramel can get impacted between or underneath a dental bridge, providing a breeding ground for gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.

Nuts, Chips, and Hard Foods

The dental experts and dental technicians of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry use the strongest materials possible while fabricating a dental bridge, but patients are supposed to be careful to save these dental restorations. Some Hard foods such as nuts, and popcorn kernels can damage the natural tooth structure as well as the dental bridge.  

Wine, Coffee, and Cola

The materials used to make a dental bridge are stain-resistant although some restorations can still become discolored over time. If you or a loved one routinely drinks dark-colored drinks, like wine, coffee, tea, and cola, the dental bridge can get stains. 

To maintain a shiny and glittery smile avoid using these drinks and follow the right teeth cleaning practices. 

Are you aiming to restore your teeth’s form and functionality? Contact Lane and Associates Family Dentistry to know more about Dental Bridges. Schedule your appointment with Lane DDS today because we aim to give you the best smile you deserve!

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dentist cleaning woman's teeth

Do you have a dental bridge, and believe your dental bridge needs repair? According to expert dentists of the Lane and Associates, dental bridges can last for decades, but with time, dental bridges need to be repaired or replaced. Usually, a dental bridge is connected to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap in the mouth. The prime purpose of a dental bridge is to restore the bite and keep the face’s natural shape.

If you want to know more about the replacement of the dental bridge, how the bridges are damaged, when to get your dental bridge fixed, how a dental bridge is repaired, and care instructions for dental bridges, you will find that information here. Lane DDS is here to help you avoid dental bridge failure.

Dental Bridge Replacement 

Do you want to know about the process of repairing a dental bridge? If yes, then remember that the treatment for a dental bridge repair depends on the reason for the bridge failure. If the problem is with an abutment tooth, Lane DDS will remove the bridge. 

Fixed bridges are cemented to the abutment teeth, so this often needs breaking the original bridge. Once the supporting teeth are treated and are healthy, then the replacement bridge can be made.

If your dentist finds out that the abutment teeth can’t be restored, then the teeth can be replaced with implants to support your dental bridge replacement. The abutment teeth along with the missing teeth can also be replaced with implants, which are fixed surgically into the jawbone.

There are a few cases in which the porcelain coating on the bridge is fractured, but the bridge is okay, in such cases the coating can be repaired easily. The expert dentists of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry can sometimes repair a fractured replacement tooth as well depending on the specific case.

How Is A Loose Dental Bridge Fixed?

The dental team at the Lane and Associates Family Dentistry dental bridge repair options depend mostly on why the bridge is loose. In the best-case scenario, the bridge can be removed by breaking the cement on the abutment tooth, the dental problem is addressed, and the same bridge is recemented. If the bridge had a fracture or a chip the bridge can be replaced with a new one.  

In some cases, the loose bridge can be due to decay on the abutment tooth, in such conditions the abutment tooth will need to be treated, if possible, by cleaning or root canal. But if the tooth is grossly carious then it will have to be replaced by an implant fixed surgically in the jawbone that can support the new dental bridge. 

Is It Common For A Dental Bridge To Fall Out?

There’s a common myth circulating that the dental bridges aren’t fixed and will eventually fall out. Although indeed, the dental bridges do sometimes loosen over time, they can easily be tightened by the dentist at the Lane and Associates Family Dentistry. However, bridges are fabricated to last a lifetime, so the chances of your bridge falling out are minimum.

How Long Does A Dental Bridge Last?

Typically, a dental bridge lasts between 5-15 years in most cases. The durability of a dental bridge depends upon the maintenance of the dental bridge and oral hygiene. 

Can A Broken Dental Bridge Be Fixed?

According to the expert Dental team of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry fixing a broken or damaged bridge is determined by the level of the damage and the condition of the surrounding teeth. 

In some cases, a simple crack or chip of a bridge can be fixed with a dental bonding material to fill in the gaps and reestablish the strength and shape of the bridge. Sometimes a loose dental bridge can be removed and re-cemented in place if the supporting teeth are still in good condition.

In cases where the supporting teeth are grossly decayed over the years, the bridge or crown may need to be replaced. The Supporting teeth that are indicating signs of decay may no longer fit perfectly with the shape of the old bridge. 

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Broken Bridge?

The average cost for the replacement of a broken dental is between $500 and $1,500. However, an implant-supported bridge costs can start at $5,000. These prices may differ depending on your insurance coverage and what work needs to be done.

Did you know that replacement of the dental bridge is very important, and it’s a good idea to do it whenever it’s required? Lane DDS recommend considering dental bridge replacements to avoid further issues. Prevention and maintenance is the right thing to do if you want great dental health. Don’t hesitate to choose Lane and Associates Family Dentistry to get the best dental treatment in the town!

Is It Difficult to Replace a Dental Bridge?

Replacing a dental bridge can be a bit complicated, but it is a routine procedure for dentists. The difficulty depends on the condition of the abutment teeth (the supporting teeth on either side of the bridge) and the reason for the replacement. If the abutment teeth are healthy, the old bridge can be removed, and a new one can be fitted without much trouble. However, if there is decay or damage to the abutment teeth, they may need treatment or even replacement with dental implants before a new bridge can be placed.

Can Decay Under a Bridge Be Fixed?

Yes, decay under a dental bridge can be fixed, but it often requires removing the bridge. The dentist will carefully take off the bridge to treat the decay on the supporting teeth. Depending on the extent of the decay, this might involve filling cavities or performing a root canal. Once the underlying issue is resolved and the teeth are healthy again, the dentist can either recement the old bridge or fit a new one.

How Can You Tell If a Dental Bridge Is Bad?

There are several signs that a dental bridge may need repair or replacement:

  • Pain or Discomfort: If you feel pain or sensitivity around the bridge, it could indicate decay or damage.
  • Movement: A bridge that feels loose or shifts in your mouth is a sign that it is not securely attached.
  • Visible Damage: Cracks, chips, or other visible damage to the bridge can compromise its effectiveness.
  • Gum Issues: Swelling, redness, or bleeding around the bridge may indicate gum disease or decay under the bridge.
  • Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of decay or infection around the bridge.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to visit your dentist for an evaluation.

How Many Times Can You Replace a Bridge?

There is no set limit to how many times you can replace a dental bridge, but the decision depends on the health of the abutment teeth or implants. If the supporting structures remain healthy, bridges can be replaced as needed. However, each replacement can be more challenging if the abutment teeth become weaker or more damaged over time. In such cases, your dentist might suggest alternative solutions like dental implants.

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Are you looking for dental bridgework but concerned about cutting the adjacent teeth? Don’t worry, at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry we provide a Maryland Dental bridge to restore your beautiful smile. The Lane DDS team is experienced in all dental treatment options. 

The Maryland bridge is a famous dental method used to replace a missing tooth, without preparing the adjacent teeth. It is made up of a metal framework with a porcelain tooth attached. The framework has metal wings that are fabricated to have a porous surface so that they can have a bonding agent. The Maryland bridge consists of two wings added at the back part of the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. 

 How Does a Maryland Bridge Work?

A Maryland bridge is fitted in areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth. This kind of dental bridge is used when there are teeth on only one side of the gap. A Maryland bridge works by anchoring the false tooth to one side over one or more adjacent teeth.

The Lane and Associates Family Dentistry dental team bonds that metal framework of the Maryland bridge from the false tooth to the supporting teeth. A composite resin is used to attach the bridge without removing the tooth surface of the adjacent teeth. This kind of dental bridge works successfully for patients who have good oral hygiene and healthy neighboring teeth. 

Are Maryland Dental Bridges Permanent?

A Maryland bridge is a permanent dental restoration that can replace a missing tooth. These bridges are like conventional bridges, but are bonded differently. The dentist helps you get a perfect smile by attaching the prosthetic tooth to the teeth on either side of the gap.

How Long Does a Maryland Bridge Last?

According to the expert dentists of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, a Maryland bridge can last up to 10 years. Remember that the bridge may de-bond, so visit your dentist right away so that they can re cement it easily.

Pros and Cons of Maryland Dental Bridge?

Just as with all dental procedures, there are pros and cons to Maryland bridges too. Some of the pros of getting a Maryland bridge are mentioned below:

  • The treatment process is non-invasive
  • A Maryland bridgework is a low-risk process 
  • Minimal preparation is required to get a Maryland bridge 
  • The treatment offers fast results
  • These bridges are cost-effective compared to other types of dental bridges
  • It does not require your dentist to remove healthy tooth enamel
  • It does not permanently change healthy adjacent teeth
  • Maryland bridges give you a seamless smile
  • Maryland bridges allow you to brush easily
  • They generally last a long time

It is always imperative to consult the dentist for a customized treatment plan. The disadvantages of Maryland dental bridges are as follows:

  • Maryland bridges may not be feasible for molars in the back of the mouth.
  • Maryland bridges may require to be re-attached every five to eight years
  • If a Maryland Bridge is not cleaned properly, it can cause tooth decay 
  • A Maryland bridge has an artificial tooth that may not perfectly match your natural teeth
  • To be a good candidate for Maryland bridges, the patient should have good oral hygiene and no tooth decay
  • Dentists do not recommend getting a Maryland bridge if you are missing more than two teeth

Which Teeth Can You Get One On?

You are an ideal candidate for a Maryland bridge if you are looking for a reliable and aesthetic solution for replacing your missing front teeth apart from the posterior teeth. 

The Maryland bridges are recommended to only those patients who do not have dental decay on the supporting teeth and have excellent oral hygiene.

Maryland bridge use cases:

According to the dentists of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, there are a few indications for a Maryland bridge which are as follows: 

  • If there is a missing tooth, a Maryland bridge is the perfect choice for you
  • If the teeth are missing in the anterior part of the mouth
  • If aesthetics is the main concern, a fixed type of porcelain Maryland bridge is a perfect choice
  • A Maryland bridge is perfect when adjacent teeth have laminates on the facial or outer surface
  • Good moisture control
  • Healthy oral cavity and good maintenance

If you think that a Maryland Bridge could be a good option for you, contact Lane and Associates Family Dentistry. All you need now is to book an appointment for an initial consultation with Lane DDS to see if you are a suitable candidate.

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missing tooth dentures

It’s true that missing teeth can be embarrassing and can lead to dental problems. If you have missing teeth, that’s okay! There are many people with similar dental issues. If you have a gap in your smile, you may need a temporary dental bridge while you are waiting for your permanent bridge to be constructed.

What is A Temporary Dental Bridge?

A temporary dental bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the space created by a lost tooth or to cover prepped teeth. This kind of dental bridge is placed on the prepared teeth while the permanent restoration is being fabricated in the dental laboratory. These temporary bridges serve very significant purposes.

  • The most important function of a temporary bridge is to protect the exposed dentin, so it is not sensitive.
  • The second purpose of the temporary bridge is to prevent food and bacteria from collecting on the tooth preparation.
  • The third purpose is to prevent the tooth from shifting or moving to the open spaces which can make seating of the permanent restoration more difficult or even impossible. 

The temporary bridges at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry are fixed on the prepped teeth with a cement that is designed to come off easily. It is important to avoid chewing sticky foods such as gum or taffy or anything very crunchy while having these temporary ridges on your teeth. 

Always remember to use your toothbrush to clean the temporary bridge as you normally do with your natural teeth. While flossing these bridges it is always best to slide the floss out below the contact rather than popping up through the contact between the temporary and the adjacent tooth.

How Long do Temporary Dental Bridges Last?

A temporary bridge is an important step in the process of getting the perfect permanent dental bridge. A temporary bridge is a solution to protect your teeth and help you drink or eat until the permanent bridge is ready. 

According to the experts at Lane DDS, temporary bridges can last up to 6 months. It will give you a good idea of how your new smile will look once the permanent bridge is cemented. You’ll likely get your permanent bridge just a couple of weeks into the process from Lane and Associates Family Dentistry.

Can You Eat with a Temporary Bridge?

Did you know that the temporary bridge for your teeth is not a long-lasting option as the permanent dental bridge? It is cemented with a temporary filling that comes off easily, so there are a few things you should know while wearing a temporary bridge. 

  • You should always avoid chewing on hard food such as nuts. 
  • Avoid crunchy and sticky foods that include toffees, gum, and caramel. 

All the above-mentioned food could cause your bridge to come loose. Other than these few textures that you should stay away from, you can eat normally with a dental bridge in place.

Can You Sleep With a Temporary Bridge?

Yes, you can sleep with a temporary bridge. Temporary bridges are designed to stay in place and protect your teeth and gums while you wait for your permanent bridge. It’s important to keep it in your mouth at all times, including when you sleep, to ensure your teeth do not shift and the prepared area remains protected.

Do Temporary Bridges Look Real?

Temporary bridges are made to look similar to your natural teeth, but they might not look as realistic as permanent bridges. They are usually made from acrylic or composite materials, which can be slightly less lifelike compared to the materials used for permanent bridges. However, they still provide a good cosmetic solution while you wait for your permanent bridge.

Can Temporary Bridges Fall Out?

Yes, temporary bridges can fall out, especially if they are not cared for properly. They are fixed with a temporary cement that is designed to be easily removed when it’s time to place the permanent bridge. To prevent your temporary bridge from falling out, avoid eating sticky or hard foods, and follow your dentist’s care instructions closely.

What to Avoid After Getting a Temporary Bridge

After getting a temporary bridge, there are several things you should avoid to ensure it stays in place and functions properly:

  • Avoid Sticky Foods: Foods like gum, caramel, and taffy can stick to the bridge and potentially dislodge it.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: Hard foods such as nuts, hard candy, and raw vegetables can break or loosen the bridge.
  • Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools: Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bite down on non-food items.
  • Chew Carefully: Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth from where the temporary bridge is located.

How Do You Brush Your Teeth With a Temporary Bridge?

Brushing your teeth with a temporary bridge requires a bit of extra care to avoid dislodging the bridge:

  • Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums without applying too much pressure.
  • Brush Gently Around the Bridge: Carefully brush around the temporary bridge to remove plaque and food particles.
  • Floss Carefully: When flossing around the temporary bridge, slide the floss out gently rather than pulling it up through the contact point between the bridge and your natural teeth. This helps to avoid pulling the bridge loose.

Are Temporary Dental Bridges Removable?

The temporary dental bridges are fabricated from porcelain fused to metal or ceramics. These bridges are either made to remain fixed in your mouth or removable when the permanent bridge is ready to be cemented.

A temporary bridge is not removable in the way that many people think. They do not operate like dentures, allowing the patient to take the bridge on and off at will. The temporary solution is cemented in place so that it can be replaced when the permanent bridge is ready. Your dentist is the only one that should remove the temporary bridge.

What is a temporary dental bridge made of?

A temporary dental bridge provided by Lane and Associates will help maintain the teeth in their correct positions and avoid further dental complications. These crowns in a temporary bridge are made of acrylic, which is easy for the dentist to manipulate and adjust.

Temporary vs permanent dental bridge

A temporary dental bridge is, as the name implies, a temporary dental appliance that will be cemented on the prepped teeth. While you are wearing the temporary bridge, the permanent bridge is carefully crafted by our expert dental technicians from the impressions of your tooth structure that will be taken on your first visit.

Temporary dental bridges give protection to the gums or teeth and make sure that the adjacent teeth will not shift their position.

A permanent dental bridge is a durable dental treatment option that is cemented on the prepped teeth with permanent cement. This type of bridge is made up of different dental materials such as porcelain, zirconium, and many other durable dental materials. These permanent bridges are fabricated in the dental laboratory by advanced dental technologies. 

Which teeth can you get a temporary dental bridge on?

The dentists make a temporary tooth bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums of a prepped tooth. It can stay in place for six months to a year, it can become discolored due to the material used for making a temporary tooth bridge.

In most cases dental bridges are used on the teeth between your molars and front teeth. Dental bridges are usually not used on the molars due to the pressure that is put on these teeth during day to day use.

Are you looking for dental treatment options but concerned about managing your prepped teeth until you get a permanent bridge? Don’t worry, we have the solution for all your concerns! Don’t let space in your teeth affect your beautiful smile or oral health. Instead, consider getting a temporary dental bridge at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry before receiving a fixed bridge.

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dental bridge example

Do you have a missing tooth, and you are wondering about different tooth replacement options? If yes, then Dental bridges at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry is one of the best treatment options for you. 

A dental bridge fills the space that is created after losing a tooth or multiple teeth and can last for 10-15 years.

A bridge is composed of two or more dental crowns that are fixed to cover either side of a gap created by a missing tooth. The two or more anchoring teeth are known as abutment teeth and the dental crown that fills the gap between the teeth is called pontic. 

A dental bridge is fabricated from different materials such as gold, alloys, and porcelain. Whether you have original teeth or dental implants Lane DDS will take support from these and will get you the perfect teeth you want to smile with confidence. 

How long do dental bridges last?

A dental bridge is made up of porcelain, ceramic, gold, or alloy depending upon the requirement and preferences of the patient. Typically, a dental bridge lasts between 10-15 years in most cases. 

The longevity of a dental bridge is based on the dental compliance of the patient and the overall maintenance of oral hygiene.  

How often do dental bridges need to be replaced?

A dental bridge functions just like original teeth. That’s why It’s always possible to have an accidental chip or wear and tear that differs for each person. The replacement of a dental bridge depends on the patient’s bite force, dietary habits, the overall condition of the teeth and gums, and the quality of oral hygiene care.

According to the expert dentists of Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, patients should avoid using the dental bridge for parafunctional purposes such as nail-biting or using teeth as tools. These parafunctional activities can result in the fracture of the dental bridge.  

This shows that the length of time of bridge may differ from person to person and dental bridges may require replacement due to several reasons. 

At Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, our dental team provides the best quality dental bridges with durability. 

Do dental bridges fall out when they get old?

Dental bridges are bonded to the underneath teeth for support. However, they may fall out from time to time due to several reasons such as tooth decay, an improper bite, improper cementation of abutments, and many more reasons. 

Let’s talk about what should be done when the bridge falls out

  • Firstly, you must save the dental bridge and make sure that you don’t lose it. 
  • Secondly, book an appointment with Lane DDS as soon as possible.
  • If you have bridgework of front teeth then you should get to Lane and Associates Family Dentistry the same day the bridge fell off. 
  • You must bring the bridge with you so that it can be bonded back in place.

The expert dentists at our dental clinic will examine the bridge and your supporting teeth to determine whether the teeth can continue supporting the bridge or not. 

In some cases when the existing support teeth are no longer robust enough, the replacement of the bridge and re-treating the area may be recommended. Lane and Associates Family Dentistry strives to provide the best treatment to restore the smile of their valued patients. 

Bridge vs implant: which lasts longer?

A dental bridge and a dental implant both are reliable options for the replacement of missing teeth. According to the expert dentists at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, if cost isn’t an issue to the patients and they possess good overall health, dental implants may be the better option since they typically last longer than dental bridges. 

When comparing dental bridges vs. Dental implants, the dental bridges are less durable. Dental Implants offer more extended protection for a lifetime. Implants are also beneficial to support jaw health. 

The jawbone stays healthy and strong with a dental implant which impacts both the shape of the face and oral health positively with age. One of the main benefits of dental implants is that the Implants naturally mimic the function and natural look of real teeth. 

Are dental bridges worth the cost/reliability?

The answer to this question is yes, dental bridges are worth the cost. Several reasons support this answer such as:

  • Dental bridges restore the function of your teeth like chewing and speaking properly. 
  • It prevents the remaining teeth from drifting which may cause a problem in your bite. 
  • A dental bridge reduces the chances of bone loss thus maintaining the structures of the face. 
  • Dental Bridges are permanently fixed, unlike dentures.

If you are still perplexed about which tooth replacement option to choose then consult our team at Lane & Associates Family Dentistry right away. Our dentists will help you determine which treatment option is best for your situation.

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THE ONE INGREDIENT a tube of toothpaste must contain to earn the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance is fluoride. (And, conversely, it must NOT contain sugar.) Fluoride is also added in trace amounts to drinking water to help keep our teeth healthy and strong. We’ve been relying on fluoride like this for decades, and its history is fascinating.

The Naturally Fluoridated Water of Colorado Springs

In the early 1900s in Colorado Springs, local dentists noticed a strange pattern. They were seeing many cases of brown — but not decayed — teeth. There were so many cases that the phenomenon was nicknamed “Colorado brown stain.” We now know that the condition they observed was fluorosis, and so many locals were getting it because of the abundance of naturally occurring fluoride in the town’s water.

Residents of early-20th century Colorado Springs were obviously getting too much fluoride in their water, but those dentists wanted to find out if there was a level of fluoride that would still protect against cavities without leaving teeth stained, and they turned out to be right. The first town to add fluoride to its drinking water was Grand Rapids, Michigan, and it brought the rate of childhood caries down by a whopping 60%. Aside from a few cases of mild fluorosis, there were no adverse effects.

Modern Fluoridated Water

Today, more than half of Americans enjoy the dental health benefits of fluoridated drinking water, something the CDC counts as one of the top ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. Everyone benefits from fluoridated water, whether male or female, young or old, rich or poor.

Adding fluoride to water might seem odd but it has similar effects as other additions. It’s essentially the same as how we use iodized salt (which prevents goiters), bake with enriched flour (which helps digestion), and drink milk with vitamin D added (which prevents rickets in children).

Fluoride and Our Teeth

Why is fluoride so good at preventing cavities? It’s because it’s a key ingredient in the remineralization process constantly happening in our tooth enamel. If we are intaking a lot of sugary and acidic foods or drinks, minerals get pulled out of our enamel. This wears away at the enamel through demineralization. If we’re limiting those foods and drinks while using fluoridated toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water, then we keep our teeth well stocked with the raw materials they need to stay strong.

The Goldilocks Zone of Fluoride

“Colorado brown stain” proved that fluoride can do more harm than good to teeth when the exposure level is too high, but avoiding fluoride entirely leaves the teeth vulnerable to decay. Fluoridated drinking water protects our teeth with only 1.2 parts per million of fluoride, particularly when paired with fluoride toothpaste. To prevent fluorosis, parents should be careful to use only small amounts of fluoride toothpaste with children. Everyone should also be spitting it out rather than swallowing it.

Bring Us Your Fluoride Questions!

If you want to learn more about fluoride in toothpaste or in drinking water, you can ask us or check sources like the CDC or the ADA. We want our patients to have all the information they need to be confident about their dental care. This is why the daily dental hygiene habits we encourage are so important.

It’s wonderful to see our patients’ healthy smiles!

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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