Are you a resident of Washington or Oregon, wondering if the water you and your family drink every day contains fluoride? In this post we’ll let you know how you can find out, and review the importance of fluoride.
What Does Fluoride Do?
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally, and just so happens to hold the power to help protect your teeth from decay. Most water contains some fluoride, but many communities across the country supplement those trace amounts with enough to provide tooth-saving benefits for residents. If your water doesn’t contain fluoride, there are still ways to access it. Look for a toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride, and feel free to consult with our team at Smiles Dental for recommendations.
Know Your Water
According to the United States Department of Health and Human Service, 0.7 milligrams per Liter (mg/L) is the recommended level of fluoride that drinking water should contain. However, that doesn’t mean your drinking water contains that level of fluoride, or any fluoride at all. Washington and Oregon both offer resources online that can help you determine whether or not you’re getting fluoride in your water.
- Washington: In Washington, communities are not required to add fluoride to their water, but may do so between the levels of .5 and .9 mg/L. With a quick visit to the Washington State Department of Health’s website, you’ll be able to tell what the state of your water is.
- Oregon: If you live in Oregon, you may or may not be receiving fluoride through your drinking water, although the number of communities receiving this benefit is set to grow as the state eyes to expand the offering. Visit the Center for Disease Control’s website to find out for sure whether your water if fluoridated.
Visit Us At Smiles Dental
Fluoride can certainly provide an extra boost in the fight against cavities, but it’s ultimately up to you to keep your teeth cavity-free. Luckily, we’re here to help you with that. Contact us at Smiles Dental, our team is here to set up your next appointment or answer any dental-related questions you have today.
Discover the Smiles Dental difference today!
Are you ready for the happy, healthy smile of your dreams? When you choose Smiles Dental Services, you’re putting your smile in the hands of highly-trained professionals you can trust. Above all, we provide our patients with leading-edge dentistry that goes above and beyond.