In the United States, most people get plenty of fluoride in their daily lives without even thinking about it. Most tap water has fluoride added to it in order to help keep teeth strong and healthy. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you have to use bottled water for everything, you might be concerned about your teeth. Read on to learn more about what you can do in this situation to ensure that your teeth are getting sufficient fluoride.

Why You Might Need Bottled Water Someday

Even if you aren't using bottled water now, it could happen to you someday. Places like Flint, Michigan and San Juan Bautista, California have found themselves in need of bottled water due to contamination that makes tap water unsafe to drink. Even if your water supply is never contaminated, a disaster could strike or a major drought could occur where you have to use bottled water temporarily due to a lack of access to tap water.

Taking Fluoride

One way you can provide added fluoride to your diet is to talk to a family dentist. Dentists can offer fluoride supplements that can be taken orally. These supplements can be taken just like any medication, and will be custom-crafted for your personal oral health needs. If your dentist is outside the area that needs to use bottled water, make sure to explain why you want a fluoride supplement and how you're worried that you're not getting enough due to drinking and brushing with bottled water.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste and Rinses

Another option is to make sure that the toothpaste you're using contains fluoride. Most do, although some natural brands refrain from using fluoride and other chemicals. Toothpastes that claim to strengthen enamel are particularly useful, since they tend to contain more fluoride.

Fluoride mouth rinses are also a great idea, and can be used in place of water when you rinse your teeth after brushing. While most fluoride rinses don't offer the antibacterial benefits of normal mouthwash, they're a great addition if you aren't getting enough fluoride.

If you're worried about your oral health during a water crisis, don't be afraid to visit a dentist for help. While a long-term lack of access to fluoride could be dangerous to your oral health, if you and your dentist work to maintain your teeth and gums, you shouldn't have to worry about a short-term problem.

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