Your teeth are made up of three layers. At the center is the pulp, which is covered by the dentin. The outer layer is called the tooth enamel, and it is made up of calcified tissue. The enamel is extremely strong. In fact, it is harder than steel! It needs to be to keep the other layers of your tooth safe.

But as strong and hard as your enamel is, it is still vulnerable. The enamel can still be chipped, and it can also be worn down, believe it or not, by your diet. There are acids in the things you eat and drink that can attack your enamel, and sugars in your diet can interact with the bacteria in your plaque to create acid.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens your enamel and helps it protect your teeth. If you live in an area that has a fluoridated water supply and you use fluoridated toothpaste, chances are that you are getting enough fluoride. But if you are concerned, call our office, and our dentists will be happy to determine if you could benefit from a fluoride treatment. This treatment can be in the form of a varnish, foam or gel. There are also fluoride mouthwashes and supplements that can be used to give you a stronger smile. Contact our team today to learn more about fluoride treatments and schedule your visit.