Lesson 5: What is Fluoride?
What’s in Your Toothpaste?
One of the key ingredients in toothpaste is fluoride! Fluoride is also found in water and is essential for keeping our teeth healthy and strong.
Before fluoride was discovered, people used all kinds of odd and yucky mixtures to clean their teeth, such as:
- Chalk and charcoal
- Ashes
- Lemon juice
Luckily, we now have many toothpaste options, including fresh minty flavors loved by most and milder ones specially made for kids!
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural element found in the earth, air, and water. Scientists discovered that children who drank water with higher levels of fluoride had healthier teeth and fewer cavities!
Fluoride works by bonding with tooth enamel to help prevent decay. It also mixes with saliva to protect teeth from bacteria, plaque, and sugar that can stick to them.
Where Do You Get Fluoride?
Fluoride is found in your toothpaste and sometimes even in your drinking water!
If you need extra fluoride, your dentist might recommend using a fluoride mouthwash or taking supplements, such as fluoride-containing vitamins. These can provide additional protection to keep your teeth strong and cavity-free!