Fluoride is a natural mineral. So how can you make sure you're providing the right amount of fluoride for children in your family? The best way is to simply turn on the tap and drink a glass of water. Fluoride added to community water supplies has been a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay for over 70 years. According to a research study published in the International Journal of Scientific and Innovative Research, fluoridation of community drinking water to prevent dental caries is considered as one of the ten most important public health achievements of the 20th century. Its widespread success is due to the fact that it's an easy means of delivering fluoride to all people within a community, regardless of age, income, education or access to dental care.
Does your family prefer bottled water or filters? Not all packaged bottled water contains fluoride so you may be missing out on cavity-fighting benefits. Additionally, home water filters may remove this helpful mineral from the tap. According to the ADA, drinking water with fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, but if you use a home water filter and bottle your own water, you may be removing the fluoride from your tap water, therefore you should use water filters that do not remove fluoride from tap water.
Every parent hopes their child will grow up with healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. One of the best ways to ensure your children will have cavity-free teeth is to follow your dentist's recommendations for fluoride use.