If you’ve had more than one cavity filled, your dentist has probably recommended using a toothpaste with fluoride to help strengthen your enamel. Fluoride is a real blessing for those who are more prone to cavities.
Is there fluoride in central Arkansas water system? Yes. Here is what you need to know.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is your teeth’s best friend. It is a mineral that naturally occurs in water sources and some foods. It strengthens your enamel and fights tooth decay.
Today, you can find it in special kinds of toothpaste, mouth rinses, and dental treatments. It’s amazing ability to naturally rebuild enamel has helped many dental patients keep their natural teeth healthy—a cause we fully support.
Is there fluoride in the central Arkansas water system?
Yes. Back in 2010 legislation was passed to add a moderated amount (0.8 mg/L) of fluoride to the central Arkansas water system. Extensive research has been done on the health benefits of fluoridation in the last 70+ years. The first city to put fluoride in their water supply was Grand Rapids, MI in 1945.
Why is this good?
It is a cost-effective, natural* way to reduce tooth decay in all central Arkansas residents. Your enamel is your first defense against serious dental problems. The more fluoride that your enamel is exposed to, topically and in your saliva, the stronger it gets.
Fluoride in your diet means fluoride in your saliva. When you are not eating, your saliva is still working to balance the acid levels in your mouth. Consuming a healthy amount of fluoride will give your saliva the extra strength it needs to build your teeth stronger after each meal.
Can fluoride be bad?
Yes. Too much fluoride, especially in children under the age of 6, can cause a condition called dental fluorosis. If you use a toothpaste that contains fluoride it’s very important that you don’t swallow it. This is why toothpaste for children doesn’t contain fluoride.
Thankfully, there is not enough fluoride in the central Arkansas water system to harm anyone. Only enough to ensure that everyone, regardless of income, has enough fluoride in their diet.
*In some parts of the world fluoridation is not necessary because there is enough naturally occurring fluoride in water sources.
