Children are not the only ones who stand to benefit from fluoride treatment. When demineralization of the tooth enamel occurs due to the destructive work of bacterial acids in plaque, fluoride can reverse the process and “remineralize” the enamel and arrest tooth decay. Moreover, menopausal women, who tend to lose bone density, should note that fluoride interacts with bone to bolster the structure that supports their teeth. Fluoride also helps prevent decay from occurring at root surfaces, which is of great potential benefit to older patients, whose gums recede as they age. These are issues that adult patients should discuss with their dentists, especially if their households drink well water or consume a good deal of bottled water.
P.S. Children between 6 months and 16 years old who do not drink fluoridated water should take fluoride supplements.
