Does Water Fluoridation Help Prevent Tooth Decay?

Is water fluoridation beneficial in the fight against tooth decay?

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental concerns among children and adolescent patients. In an effort to determine if water fluoridation helps minimize the risk of developing tooth decay, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry developed a study to discover if there is a correlation between water fluoridation and tooth decay in children and adolescent patients in the U.S.

According to the study, “The researchers discovered that counties in which more than 75 percent of the population had access to community water fluoridation saw a 30 percent reduction in dental caries experience in the primary dentition and a 12 percent reduction in the permanent dentition compared to counties in which less than 75 percent had access to community water fluoridation.

As noted, there is a positive correlation between water fluoridation and prevention of tooth decay. Patients who had access to water fluoridation experienced a decline in tooth decay. Receiving fluoride on a daily basis can help improve your oral health.

The study reveals, “Having fluoride in the water as well as fluoride toothpaste, you’re getting the maximum benefits in terms of a reduced chance of getting tooth decay, whether that’s tooth decay that causes a small cavity or that causes a large cavity that might need a root canal treatment or extractions and replacement with more expensive therapy.”

Water fluoridation and fluoride based products help aid in the fight against tooth decay. However, whether or not a child develops tooth decay is also dependent on their oral health habits. Developing a healthy oral hygiene routine and visiting the dentist regularly can help reduce your child’s risk of developing tooth decay and other complex dental concerns.

Most dentists recommend that children visit the dentist before the age of 1 years old or after the emergence of the first tooth. Taking preventive measures now can prevent advanced issues in the future. Equipping children with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve optimal oral health can help them make more informed choices regarding their oral health as they age.

Read the full study from Dental Products Report.

Achieve A Healthier Smile

We go above and beyond to help each of our patients achieve a healthier smile. Philadelphia, PA dentist Dr. Pamela Doray offers a full range of preventive and general dental services for adult patients with mild to advanced stages of tooth decay. Dr. Doray can perform a full comprehensive exam and create a personalized solution based on your oral health needs.

To learn more about your options, visit our Philadelphia dental office. To schedule an appointment, call (215) 395-6076 or request an appointment online.