Tooth decay and cavities in children are a nightmare for parents. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and this year the slogan is ‘Fluoride in water prevents cavities! Get it from the tap!’
Why Fluoride? Fluoride, a chemical ion of fluorine, is one of the top 20 most common naturally occurring elements in the earth’s crust. An ion is a positively or negatively charged atom that helps elements combine. When fluorine, a negatively charged ion, meets a positively charged ion such as sodium, it turns into a cavity-fighter element.
Hence, fluoride compounds, when present in the mouth, make teeth stronger by preventing cavities and decay. These wonder elements can even reverse tooth decay in the early stages.
Let’s understand how fluoride prevents cavities and the benefits of consuming tap water with fluoride.
(more…)