Dr. Sargissian Speaks On the Topic of Fluoride
Recently, the topic of Fluoride has become a main talking point in the dental industry. On one hand, traditional dentistry maintains that Fluoride treatment, whether applied topically or taken as a supplement, is essential for our oral health. On the other side of things, alternative medicine strongly warns us against the use of such chemicals. The Internet is saturated with arguments both for and against Fluoride. Understandably, people searching for answers may find themselves even more confused after doing online research. In this short article I will explain my practice philosophies regarding Fluoride in attempt to provide a bit of clarity for my readers.
Sodium
Fluoride is the active ingredient in typical dental office treatment.
Laboratory studies have shown that Fluoride treatment can reduce enamel
solubility and in some cases reduce the amount of bacteria attached to the
teeth. While the material used in Fluoride treatment has passed necessary
health approvals, I have not been able to find studies involving pregnant women
and/or children. Generally, Fluoride is delivered as foam in a shaped tray that
the patient (in most cases a child) wears for a period of time. Patients are
advised for their safety not to swallow, however try telling that to a four year
old. The negative effects of ingestion have not been widely studied. It is my
personal belief that fluoride is rarely needed. Eating healthy, non-processed
foods as well as maintaining good oral hygiene habits will theoretically
protect you from cavities. In some infrequent cases, this is not enough and you
may require a few fillings throughout life. In my opinion, this approach to
preventing cavities is still less abrasive than filling porous teeth with a
chemical barrier. It should be noted that once in a great while, I do see
patients who, due to specific health complications, will require some sort of
Fluoride treatment. These cases are extremely rare however.
In
my opinion, routine treatment of Fluoride is not necessary so long as proper
diet and hygiene habits are followed. The dental profession will continue to
discuss the pros and cons to Fluoride but I consider my approach to eliminate
the worry surrounding negative effects all together. So are you taking a risk
when declining routine Fluoride? Perhaps, in the form of a potential increase
for tooth decay. Are we one hundred percent confidant that Fluoride treatment
is not negatively affecting our health? I’m afraid we don’t have an answer for
that.
