Fluorides Tooth decay rates in U.S. children have decreased dramatically. Much is due to the widespread use of fluoride in both systemic and topical forms, which provide the most effective decay prevention measures. Fluoridated water, fluoride drops and tablets are systemic fluorides, which means they are taken internally. Water fluoridation is the most effective and inexpensive way to reduce dental decay in a community. Topical fluorides are placed directly on the teeth in the form of toothpastes, mouthrinses, and professionally applied by dental hygienists.
Topical fluoride reverses early decay by helping tooth enamel rebuild itself.
Topical fluorides are still very important because there are still communities whose water is not fluoridated. These services protect children against tooth decay just as vaccines immunize against certain medical diseases. ADHA urges that any children s health initiative improve access to preventive oral health care services by including dental sealants and fluoride in any definition of childhood immunizations.