Fluoride Programs - Delta Dental 's Fluoridation Programs
This means we are deeply committed to improving the oral health of our members as well as the general population. As the leader in dental benefits, we are in a unique position to influence oral health programs that can have a positive impact on a person’s overall health. And we do. One example of this commitment is our support of fluoridation.
Fluoride has been identified as one of the easiest, most effective and inexpensive ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Yet there are many people in Massachusetts that don't have access to the fluoride they need to fight tooth decay. We're working to change this.
_____________________________________________________________________
The Importance of Fluoride
Making sure your family gets the right amount of fluoride may be the most important thing you can do for their dental health. This naturally occurring mineral offers crucial protection for the enamel that covers teeth. An amazingly powerful weapon in the battle against tooth decay, fluoride has been shown to:
- strengthen tooth enamel
- reduce the effects of plaque
- prevent cavities from developing
- limit the growth of existing cavities
- prevent cavities from forming at the roots of teeth when gums start to recede
In fact, studies have shown that children who drink fluoridated water from birth have 40 percent to 60 percent fewer cavities than those who don’t! Fluoridated water, toothpaste and rinses are great sources of fluoride, and dentists can apply topical fluoride or prescribe fluoride supplements when needed. So, talk to your dentist to make sure you and your family get the fluoride you need.
Back to Top
_____________________________________________________________________
Helping People Get the Fluoride They Need
Delta Dental sponsors a number of programs that provide dental care to traditionally underserved populations, particularly children, including:
- Providing HeadStart Programs with fluoride tablets.
- Funding fluoride mouth-rinse programs to school systems in towns with non-fluoridated water.
- Advocating fluoridated water to cities and towns that don’t have it.
Back to Top
_____________________________________________________________________
Delta Dental's Fluoride Research
Delta Dental launched several research initiatives that will help us better utilize fluoride as a tool for fighting tooth decay. We are currently looking at the effectiveness of using fluoride varnishes to protect senior citizens’ teeth and the effects of fluoride on children’s oral health. We are also sponsoring a comparative study of the dental services performed on people living in towns with fluoridated water and those living in towns with non-fluoridated water.
Back to Top
_____________________________________________________________________
|
