Fluoride is available in many forms. The most prevalent forms are in certain foods – including some fresh fruits, raw vegetables and dairy products – and, in the majority of the U.S., from our public water supply used for cooking and drinking. However, not all drinking water has been fluoridated, such as that from private water wells, home treatment systems and bottled water.
Another way to provide this necessary mineral to your teeth is through the use of “topical” applications, which includes using some toothpaste and mouth rinses that have low concentrations of fluoride. A prescription for supplements, in the form of either liquids or tablets, can be used to achieve the amounts necessary for remineralization. These supplements can be prescribed by a dentist, pediatrician or family doctor.
There are three ways in which fluoride treatments can be done, including:
- Varnishes which can be painted directly onto the surface of your teeth
- Foams that are put directly into a mouth guard and then applied to your teeth for one to four minutes
- Gels that can be applied in either of the two above ways methods