Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral necessary for the healthy formation of bones and teeth. However, our bodies don’t always take in sufficient amounts of fluoride, which causes fluoride deficiency. 

The condition can affect your overall oral health and make your teeth more prone to cavities and decay. The good news is that you can prevent or remedy this problem with help from fluoride treatment. This article will discuss the signs of fluoride deficiency and the different types of preventive fluoride treatment you can try. Let’s dive in!

Signs of Fluoride Deficiency 

• Dental Caries – The formation of dental caries or cavities is the most common effect of fluoride deficiency, affecting 2.4 billion adults and 486 million children globally, according to the WHO. 

Inadequate fluoride can cause tooth enamel to break down and increase the spread of harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to cavities and decay. Thankfully, studies have found that water fluoridation and other fluoride treatments can lessen the risk of tooth decay in children’s teeth by 18% to 40%.

• Weak Bones –  Fluoride deficiency doesn’t just affect teeth; it can also lead to brittle bones. One study suggested that drinking fluoridated water helped people strengthen their bones, increase bone density, and reduce the risk of hip and spine fractures. Another NIH study found a link between fluoride exposure and stimulated bone formation.

The Different Types of Fluoride Treatment 

There are various fluoride treatment types, including water fluoridation, professionally applied treatments, and home remedies.

Community Water Fluoridation

Fluoridation, which is the act of adjusting the amount of fluoride in a community’s public water supplies to an optimal level, is seen as one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to address fluoride deficiency. It is recommended by nearly all public health organizations, including the ADA, WHO, and CDC.

Since fluoride is already naturally present in groundwater, fluoridation merely acts as a fortifying measure similar to how milk is fortified with Vitamin D or table salt with iodine. Both children and adults, no matter their income or education, benefit from community water fluoridation. In fact, research shows that drinking fluoridated water lessens tooth decay by about 25% in people of all age ranges. 

Professionally Applied Fluoride Treatments for Teeth

For fluoride deficiency that gravely affects the health of your teeth, you can opt for fluoride treatment by visiting your dentist. According to the ADA, a wide range of professionally applied fluorides, such as mouth rinses, gels, foams, prophylaxis pastes, and varnishes, will be applied to your teeth directly by a dental professional. 

Some dentists may also prescribe fluoride supplements that can be taken at home. The type of treatment and amount of fluoride given will depend on your particular needs. So, make sure to inform your dentist about your health history so that they can prescribe the treatment that’s right for you.

What to Do After Teeth Fluoride Treatment

The answer depends on the specific type of fluoride used by your dentist. For instance, with some fluoride treatments, you will need to refrain from eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to sink in. Your best course of action is to ask your dentist and follow their instructions closely.

Home Remedies for Fluoride Deficiency Affecting Teeth

• Fluoride Mouth Rinse – One notable home remedy for fluoride deficiency is using a fluoride mouth rinse, typically intended for either daily or weekly use. Remember, however, that this concentrated solution must be rinsed and spit out, so it may not be the best fluoride treatment for children younger than six years old who might instinctively swallow the rinse.
• Fluoride Toothpaste or Tooth Gel – The simplest way to prevent fluoride deficiency is by brushing your teeth with toothpaste or tooth gel that contains the right amount of fluoride. Make sure to choose quality fluoride toothpaste from trusted brands, ideally one that’s formulated to clean hard-to-reach areas and promote fresh breath.
• High-Fluoride Drinks – Another known home remedy for fluoride deficiency is drinking beverages high in fluoride. Some examples include black tea, wine, grape juice, coffee, and soda.

Find the Fluoride Toothpaste That Works Best for You!

Remember: When it comes to your oral health, prevention is better than cure. So, if you want to avoid teeth problems due to fluoride deficiency and stay on top of your dental health, brush your teeth with the fluoride gel toothpaste from PRO-SYS. 
With fluoride and mint combination, this toothgel refreshes your breath and shields your teeth from tooth decay at the same time. Experience the difference this at-home remedy can make for your oral hygiene!