Over the years, we have been wrongly led to believe that fluoride applications at the dentist and fluoride in toothpaste, mouthwashes, and our city drinking water is beneficial for our oral health. Unfortunately, this is not the case! Dr. Beata A. Carlson and Associates at Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry are here to educate patients in Clearwater, Florida, about the harmful effects of fluoride and the health risks that it can pose.
Understanding Fluoride
Fluoride is an element that, in its pure state, is a gas that is poisonous and corrosive. It is one of the more reactive elements of the well-known Periodic Table of Elements. It exists in nature only when combined with other elements, such as calcium, sodium, or aluminum. Because it is present in the Earth, industries mining other raw materials produce fluoride as a hazardous waste during the ore extraction and refinement processes.
Is Fluoride Considered a Drug?
According to the FDA, fluoride meets the definition of a drug. The FDA has approved fluoride specifically for use in toothpaste and mouthwash. Additionally, too much fluoride can be highly hazardous to one’s health, resulting in a condition known as dental fluorosis. This is the damage to the teeth when too much fluoride has been used. In mild cases, dental fluorosis is characterized by noticeable white spots or streaks in the natural tooth enamel to pitting and brittleness of the natural teeth in severe cases. This is why our patients must pay close attention to how much fluoride is consumed, especially since it is added to city water sources.
How Do I Avoid Fluoride That Can Impact My Health?
Our Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry team educates patients on how harmful fluoride can be and its common health risks. When you come into our practice, we can make alternative recommendations for maintaining a healthy smile. This includes brushing after each meal, flossing at least once daily, and visiting our dentists regularly for cleanings and checkups. We encourage our new and current patients to ask questions about the products used to improve their smile to ensure that they are biocompatible with the body and safe and effective in treating common dental concerns.
Want To Learn More About Fluoride And Its Health Risks?
Work with a holistic, biocompatible, natural dentist who fully understands the risks of fluoride for the mouth and body. Dr. Beata A. Carlson and Associates in Clearwater, FL, have the information you need to decide on your oral health care and the treatments that will benefit your smile.
Call 727-888-6523 to request a visit at Natural and Cosmetic Dentistry, located at 1825 Sunset Point Road, to make an appointment!
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