Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/195015
What are the benefits of water fluoridation? Studies show that water fluoridation reduces cavities by at least 25% in children and adults. Water fluoridation benefits everyone, especially those without access to regular dental care. It also saves money. The cost of a lifetime of fluoridated water is less than the cost of one filling. And it's easy. You can protect your teeth from cavities simply by drinking water, whether you are at home, work, or school. What is the best way to get fluoride? To find out if the tap water in your area contains fluoride at a level that can help prevent cavities, ask your dentist. You also can contact your local, county, or state health department or water supplier. If you have a private well, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you test it every year. Contact your local, county, or state health department to get a list of certified labs that can test fluoride levels. PATIENT EDUCATION Teeth can get fluoride in two ways: when it is swallowed and when it is put onto the tooth surface. To prevent cavities, it is best to get a little bit of fluoride both ways. More fluoride is not always better. Dentists use the term "optimal" to mean "just the right amount." Fluoride that is swallowed usually comes from tap water. In some parts of the USA, the tap water naturally has an optimal amount of fluoride. In other places, the tap water does not. So some cities and towns add fluoride to the tap water. This is called "water fluoridation." If your community's water does not have an optimal amount of fluoride, talk to your dentist or pediatrician about your family's fluoride needs. HYGIENE When fluoride is put onto the surface of your teeth, it is called topical fluoride. Fluoride toothpastes and mouthrinses sold in stores contain topical fluoride. Also, your dentist can apply topical fluoride gels and varnishes to your teeth. W135 VISIT WWW.ADA.ORG/FLUORIDE FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ABOUT FLUORIDE AND FLUORIDATION. Bottled water Most bottled waters do not have the l of fluoride needed to help prevent cav So, people who often drink bottled water c missing the benefits of water fluoridation. about the fluoride level in the water, chec label. If it is not listed, contact the bottler. Home water treatment syste Your home water filter system might rem fluoride from the water. Generally, filters t in pitchers or attach to your faucet do not a lot of fluoride. Reverse osmosis and dist units remove almost all of the fluoride. Che the product's maker to learn if the filter or removes fluoride from your drinking water Is fluoride safe? More than 65 years of study and experienc shown that water fluoridation is safe. Fluor of community water is supported by the A Dental Association (ADA), the Centers for Control and Prevention, the American Acad Pediatrics, the American Medical Associatio the World Health Organization. W102 tAkinG CAre oF YoUr teetH AnD GUmS FlUoriDe, nAtUre'S CAVitY FiGHter BESt SEllEr Help your patients shape up their home care routines with this step-by-step guide. Its detailed brushing and flossing photos eliminate guesswork. Text explains the causes of decay and gum disease, motivating patients to stick with it. Points out that it is easier and less expensive to prevent disease and decay than to treat them. Also includes tips to help patients choose dental products. rEVISEd Many patients have misconceptions about fluoride or don't fully appreciate its importance. Help them see fluoride as a dental health ally with this brochure. It names sources of fluoride, both topical and systemic. Benefits and safety of water fluoridation are outlined, and patients are reminded that most bottled waters lack fluoride. Also gives guidance on proper amounts of fluoride toothpaste for young children. PERSONALIZE IT #DAB011 See page 86 W135 English 8 panels W102 8 panels 50 per pack 50 per pack W211 Spanish QTY MEMBER RETAIL 50 $27.00 $40.50 QTY MEMBER RETAIL 100 $49.00 $73.50 50 $27.00 $40.50 500 $198.00 $297.00 100 $49.00 $73.50 1,000 $335.00 $502.50 500 $198.00 $297.00 1,000 $335.00 $502.50 Our colorful, glossy brochures have a fresh new look designed to engage patients! 48 ADA_Catalog_PRINT_9.5.indb 48 o r D e r BY PH o n e: 80 0.947. 4746 9/5/13 11:34 AM