Fluoride: Friend or Foe? Let’s Talk Science!

If you've been scrolling through social media lately, you’ve probably seen heated debates about fluoride. Should it be in our toothpaste? What about our drinking water? Before we toss our toothbrushes, let’s break down the science (in a fun way!) with insights from Dr. Ronald Hsu, a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist who has seen the real-life impact of fluoride firsthand.

Fluoride: Nature's Secret Weapon for Strong Teeth

Did you know your teeth are made of something called hydroxyapatite? (Don’t worry, we won’t quiz you later!) This mineral is the backbone of strong, healthy teeth—but it has one major weakness: acid.

Many everyday foods and drinks are surprisingly acidic:

• Gatorade (pH 3)
• Apple juice (pH 4)
• Citrus fruits (pH 2-4)

Natural enamel starts to break down at a pH of 5.5—which means many of the things we eat and drink are working against us!

Enter fluoride. When fluoride is incorporated into enamel, it transforms hydroxyapatite into fluorapatite, which is much more resistant to acid. Teeth fortified with fluoride won’t start dissolving until the pH drops to 4.3. That’s a HUGE difference in protection!

Real-World Proof: Dr. Hsu’s Observations

Dr. Hsu spent over a decade treating children in Clark County and saw firsthand the impact of fluoride—or the lack thereof, in drinking water. Kids in areas with fluoridated water had significantly lower cavity rates than those without it. The difference was night and day!

He explains, “Emotion doesn’t make a better decision, just like in stock market investments. Science consistently shows that fluoride plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay.”

What Happens If We Remove Fluoride?

Taking fluoride out of drinking water may sound like a small change, but the consequences could be major:

• More cavities – Kids will develop more cavities at a faster rate.
• Painful dental treatments – Fillings, crowns, and even extractions will become more common.
• Increased costs – Families who can’t afford dental treatments will suffer the most.

Without fluoride, tooth decay skyrockets, especially in communities where dental care access is already limited.

So, Should You Be Worried About Fluoride?

Absolutely not! The key is getting the right amount. The American Dental Association (ADA), the CDC, and countless health organizations support fluoride at safe levels for optimal dental protection. Think of it like adding a pinch of salt to your favorite dish—too much is bad, but just the right amount makes everything better!

The Bottom Line: Trust the Experts

When it comes to your family’s health, it's always best to rely on science and professional guidance rather than myths or social media rumors. If you have concerns about fluoride or your child’s dental health, reach out to a professional.

Dr. Ronald Hsu and the team at Storybook Dental are here to help! Call (360) 216-1130, email contact@storybookdental.com, or visit storybookdental.com to schedule an appointment today!