Fluoride benefits are widely advertised by the media today. We all know that it’s good for the teeth and bones, but many of us still have unanswered questions regarding this mineral such as what is it exactly, where does it come from, and what are its other benefits. To know more about these, here are some things you might want to know about fluoride.
What are Fluorine and Fluoride?
Fluorine is a natural mineral found in the water and soil. It has a negatively charged ion form found in various products that is called fluoride. Fluoride is a trace element present inside the body in small quantities. Adults for example contain 2.6 grams of fluoride. The daily requirement to maintain good dental health is a few milligrams. Fluoride is mostly concentrated on the bones and teeth. It is essential for the prevention of tooth decay and other fluoride deficiency ailments. Here are some of the other benefits of this element.
1. Healthy Teeth
The number one benefit of fluoride for the body is healthy teeth. This element is known for providing strength to the tooth surface and the enamel through strengthening and intensification of the tooth’s composition. This is why most of the toothpastes and tooth care products available in the market today come with fluoride. This is advertised widely as an effective means to maintain healthy and strong teeth.
2. Bone Loss Prevention
As mentioned earlier, large amounts of fluoride can also be found in the bones apart from the teeth. In fact, only 5 percent fluoride is found in the teeth, while 95 percent is stored in the bones. This is because fluoride is what the body needs to strengthen the bone and prevent bone loss. It helps curb and inhibit bone deterioration and bone degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis.
3. Enamel Strengthening
In relation to the healthy teeth, fluoride also works to provide strength to the enamel. When fluoride is absorbed in the body, it goes to the stomach and then into the small intestine. It will then pass through the bloodstream where it will rapidly go into the mineralized tissue such as the bones and teeth to strengthen them.
4. Acid Reduction
Fluoride has also been found to decrease the production of acid in the body. When you consume the right amount of fluoride, it will help inhibit the bacterial enzymes in the body. This in turn can reduce the amount of acid generated by the carcinogenic bacteria found in the teeth. There is also less risk of tooth decay. This is why people are often advised to brush their teeth right after eating. This is to avoid not only tooth decay but also decrease acidity levels in the body. Bacteria and viruses that cause disease thrive well in acidic conditions.
You can acquire the health benefits of fluoride by regularly brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and by drinking fluoridated water, which can fight off tooth decay and help strengthen your bones.