Fluoride Care Proves Effective in Preventing Cavities in the Elderly

News

Fluoride Care Proves Effective in Preventing Cavities in the Elderly

Fluoride Care Proves Effective in Preventing Cavities in the Elderly—Reports Suggest Over 70% Decline in Some Countries

In recent years, oral care has gained increasing attention, with fluoride being recognized once again as a key method for cavity prevention.

While it is often associated with children’s dental care, fluoride is also highly effective for adults, especially the elderly.

Fluoride Care Proves Effective in Preventing Cavities in the Elderly—Reports Suggest Over 70% Decline in Some Countries

Three Main Ways Fluoride Helps Prevent Cavities

Fluoride, a naturally occurring element found in soil, water, food, and drinks, is also present in the human body, with adults typically containing around 2.6 grams. The cavity-preventing properties of fluoride are well established globally.

Fluoride works in three primary ways to prevent cavities and halt their progression:

Repairing enamel: Fluoride promotes the remineralization of enamel, helping restore areas where it has eroded. By incorporating calcium and phosphate from saliva, initial cavities can even heal.
Strengthening teeth: When applied to the teeth, fluoride forms a crystalline structure called fluorapatite, making the enamel more resistant to acid, and thus reducing the risk of cavities.
Inhibiting bacteria: Fluoride also suppresses the activity of cavity-causing bacteria, reducing their ability to produce harmful acids.

Fluoride’s cavity-preventing power is considered more effective than limiting the intake of sugars and other sweet substances, a major cause of cavities. In fact, countries that have adjusted fluoride levels in tap water or promoted fluoride care have reported a 50-70% reduction in cavities.

Fluoride is Especially Beneficial for Children and the Elderly

Children, particularly those aged 6 months to 15 years, are often advised to use fluoride because it is more readily absorbed by newly developing teeth. Studies show that applying fluoride six times a year to infants significantly reduces the risk of cavities in baby teeth. However, the benefits extend to adults, especially the elderly.

“As people age, their gums recede by about 2 millimeters every decade, exposing the tooth roots. These roots, unlike the enamel-covered crown, are more prone to cavities, even from foods like miso soup, not just sugary snacks. Fluoride care is crucial in reducing this risk,” explains Dr. Kobayashi.

Higher Concentration Fluoride Treatments at Dental Clinics

Although fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash are readily available, the fluoride concentration in over-the-counter products is capped at 1,500 ppm, with most ranging between 900 and 1,450 ppm. In contrast, dental clinics offer fluoride treatments at concentrations as high as 9,000 ppm, providing much stronger protection against cavities.

For optimal results, regular fluoride treatments at the dentist are recommended. The effects of fluoride last about three months, so it’s advisable to reapply every three to six months. For those with exposed roots or a high risk of cavities, monthly treatments might be necessary, Depending on the clinic, fluoride treatments may be covered by insurance, typically costing around 1,000 yen.

In addition to professional fluoride treatments, daily use of fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash at home is essential to maintaining oral health. Dr. Kobayashi suggests using plenty of fluoride toothpaste, swishing it around the mouth, and rinsing with only 10–15 milliliters of water for about five seconds to avoid washing away the fluoride.

While concerns about fluoride toxicity exist, the fluoride used in dental products and treatments is highly safe. There’s no need to worry, and regular fluoride care is an excellent way to maintain healthy teeth.