Fluoride isn’t so hard to understand, right? Wrong. According to a new survey conducted by Decima Research, 56 per cent of us don’t recognize fluoride’s role in reducing tooth decay and three-quarters of us are confused about treatments. To help de-mystify fluoride, we asked dental hygienist Laurel Berry about some of the most common fluoride myths:

Myth: There is Only One Type of Fluoride
Fact: According to a recent survey, three-quarters of us say we’re getting enough fluoride, yet a sweeping 77 per cent don’t know the difference between systemic and topical fluorides. Systemic fluoride is ingested by the body, absorbed into the bloodstream and then stored in the tissues and teeth, whereas topical fluoride simply coats the tooth surface. Systemic fluoride is found in drinking water, supplements and food. Topical fluoride is found in toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels and foams.

Myth: There’s Enough Fluoride in Our Water
Fact: Canadians stop obtaining the benefits of systemic fluoride - found in water - by the age of 16. So adults shouldn’t view water – tap or bottled – a source for additional fluoride.

Myth: Fluoride Only Benefits Kids
Fact: As Canadians stop receiving the benefits of systemic fluoride after the age of 16, it’s important to include topical fluorides in our oral care routine. This is particularly important at middle age and in our golden years to aid in the prevention of cavities.

Myth: Fluoride in Toothpaste is Sufficient
Fact: The majority of Canadians assume that they are receiving enough fluoride with their toothpaste, yet many can benefit from adding more fluoride to their oral care routine. If you’ve had dental work, topical fluoride can help re-mineralize enamel weakened by cavities. An estimated nine out of 10 Canadians will develop some form of gum disease in their lives, so a topical fluoride rinse with essential oils will help prevent cavities and gingivitis. Look for clinically proven therapeutic mouth rinses that are recognized by the Canadian Dental Association and carry their seal of recognition.

Myth: The More Fluoride the Better
Fact: Not everyone needs more fluoride in their oral care routine. But if you’re one of the 85 per cent of Canadians who have experienced tooth decay or the nearly quarter of us who has more than average dental work, you may want to take a second look. Recent data shows that from the mid-thirties onward dental work increases and more than half of the population over 45 describe themselves as having more or substantial dental work.

Myth: Fluoride Just Fights Cavities
Fact: New products on the market, such as Listerine’s new topical fluoride rinse strengthen teeth by coating the enamel, making it less porous and more resistant to acids; reduce the ability of dental plaque to produce acids that contribute to tooth decay; and re-mineralizing the tooth enamel, as well as preventing and reducing gingivitis.

Myth: Everyone Drinks Fluoridated Water
Fact: Only about 40 per cent of Canadian households receive fluoridated water. However, adults who believe drinking tap water provides them with more fluoride intake may be mistaken, as we stop absorbing systemic fluoride after age 16.