Fluoride can be an effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay.  If a person grew up with the optimum daily fluoride (as many cities on the Eastern USA have had in their city water for fifty years)  the reduction in tooth decay would average 60%.  In Nevada County we have almost no fluoride in our tap water, nor is it practical to fluoridate our system because the NID system is way too complex; so the local media will have to find other news.  Public fluoridation in Nevada County is not likely to ever be a public health issue.  However, the benefits, when appropriate, involve powerful preventive factors that make fluoride an important personal issue. 

So how do we go about getting the preventive benefits of fluoride?

Between the ages of 6 months and 13 years old is the "window of opportunity" to receive the maximum benefits.  1/4 mg of fluoride between 6 months and 2 years, then 1/2 mg between 2 years and 6 years, and then 1 mg between 6 years and 13 years.  Those are the averages and could need to be modified because of child's physical size.  These doses usually come in tablet form as part of the "Tri-Vi-Flor" or other vitamin/fluoride tablets that are prescribed either by a child's physician or dentist.  Once the permanent teeth have all erupted, there is very little dental benefit from taking fluoride tablets.  During these years, there is additional benefit from having the six months' topical application done by a professional hygienist.

Those over thirteen can continue to receive the benefits from fluoride only in one the many topical applications.  These can come from using fluoride lozenges or fluoride gels, both of which are prescription items and should be kept away from small children.  Topical application by the hygienist at cleaning appointments is a benefit to most adults.  The only "over the counter" fluoride is that found in toothpastes.  Use ADA approved toothpastes to get the optimum amount and brush for a long time to get the maximum contact on the teeth.  

These are some of the reasons for using topical fluorides.  If you don't fit into any of these categories and you use the topical fluorides anyway, the worst thing that will happen is that you wasted a little time and money, but you don't know that until after the fact. 

• Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
• Fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
• Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake.
• Inadequate exposure to fluorides.
• Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments or medications.
• Recent history of dental decay.

Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay!  It is important to brush twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.