Fluoride helps harden the tooth enamel and make it more resistant to tooth decay. A small cavity can be stopped and even reversed by the remineralization process enhanced by fluoride. Systemic Fluoride Systemic fluoride is delivered to the tooth surface via the bloodstream. Fluoridated water is an effective way to reduce the problem of dental decay. Some water supplies already naturally contain fluoride, for others, fluoride is intentionally added to the water supply.
Some communities have no fluoride in their water.
Other communities are unaware of this option. If you would like to know if your community's water supply contains fluoride, call your local water or health department. Children from birth to 14 years of age will benefit the most from systemic fluoride. This is because when fluoride is ingested, it circulates through the bloodstream and into developing teeth. The fluoride is then built into the enamel structure of the developing tooth, making the tooth more resistant to acids.