Fluoride

What is fluoride and how does it work?

Fluoride is an important mineral that helps keep teeth strong and healthy. It occurs naturally in water, soil, and air. Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outer layer of your teeth. Fluoride can even reverse early stages of tooth decay.

Where is fluoride found?

• Most toothpaste and some mouth rinses contain fluoride.
• Your dental provider may apply fluoride as a varnish, gel, foam, or liquid rinse.
• You may purchase a daily or weekly rinse, or fluoride supplement, at a drug store if recommended by your dental provider.
• Small amounts of fluoride are found in nearly all water supplies. The amount in municipal water may be adjusted to an optimal level to protect teeth; it is not currently added in the KFL&A area.

Who may benefit from fluoride?

Everyone can benefit from different types (e.g., varnish, toothpaste, and water) of fluoride, including both children and adults.

KFL&A Public Health supports community water fluoridation as an effective way to prevent tooth decay, benefitting the whole community.