Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 4 minutes
A national debate is growing after the U.S. Health Secretary proposed ending community water fluoridation. For Colorado families, that raises important questions. Is fluoride in water safe? Is it still needed?
At Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics, we believe in science-backed care. Fluoride remains one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay in kids. But in Colorado, fluoride levels in public water supplies vary by city, and that means some children may not get enough protection without additional fluoride support.
In this blog, you will learn how fluoride works, where Colorado stands on fluoridated water, and what treatment options are available for your child.
We offer preventative dentistry procedures for the whole family at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Fluoride remains a safe and effective way to protect your family’s dental health. By understanding your local water supply and working with your dentist, you can ensure everyone gets the right amount of fluoride for strong, healthy teeth.
Fluoride in Colorado Water: A Local Breakdown
Some Colorado cities, including Aurora, Castle Rock, Golden, Westminster, and Colorado Springs, have naturally occurring fluoride in their water. This means fluoride is already in the water, so it is not necessary to add more (nor is it possible to remove it).
Other areas, like Denver, fluoridate their water supply to reach the optimal level of 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter, as recommended by the U.S. Public Health Service.
If your family uses bottled water, filtered water, or lives in an area with low concentrations of fluoride, your child may be missing out on fluoride intake critical to cavity prevention.
Knowing the fluoride level in your home water source allows you to take preventive action, including using dental products with fluoride or fluoride supplements as needed.
The Benefits of Fluoride
Fluoride protects teeth in two key ways:
- Strengthens enamel: It rebuilds weakened tooth enamel before cavities can form.
- Prevents decay: It lowers the risk of tooth decay by fighting harmful bacteria.
The ADA, CDC, and pediatric dental experts still name fluoride as one of the greatest public health achievements in cavity prevention. When used at recommended levels, fluoride is proven to be both safe and effective.
Children and adults who consistently receive the right amounts of fluoride, whether through drinking water or toothpaste with fluoride, are less likely to develop cavities and require restorative dental treatments.
However, too much fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis (white spots on teeth) or, in rare cases, skeletal fluorosis. That’s why understanding the right levels of fluoride exposure and following safe guidelines is essential.
Types of Fluoride Treatments Dentists Use
Even if your water supply is fluoridated, professional fluoride treatments can provide extra protection for your teeth. Some individuals are more susceptible to cavities or may not get enough fluoride from their daily routine.
Here are the main types of fluoride treatments available:
- Fluoride varnish: A concentrated fluoride coating applied directly to your teeth in-office to strengthen enamel. It’s effective for both adults and children, especially for those at higher risk of decay or with sensitive teeth.
- Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF): A topical solution that helps stop active tooth decay, often used in cases where traditional fillings may not be the best option, such as for very young children or individuals with special needs.
- Prescription fluoride toothpaste or supplements: For individuals who may not get enough fluoride from drinking water or who are more prone to cavities, prescription fluoride products can help strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of decay.
- Fluoride gel or foam: Applied during a professional cleaning, fluoride gel or foam is placed in a tray that fits over your teeth. This treatment helps strengthen enamel and protect against cavities by allowing the fluoride to remain in contact with your teeth for several minutes.
- Fluoride rinse: A mouthwash treatment that helps remineralize enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. It’s often recommended for adults with specific dental needs, such as sensitivity or a history of cavities.
We also provide guidance on selecting the right fluoride toothpaste and offer tips on how to avoid overexposure while still reaping the benefits of fluoride for strong, healthy teeth.
When in Doubt, Get the Facts from Trusted Sources
Social media and news cycles do not replace evidence-based dental guidance. When it comes to something as important as your child’s oral health, always consult professional resources.
Use CDC’s My Water’s Fluoride to check your local water supply’s fluoride level. The ADA and CDC continue to recommend fluoride as a cornerstone of preventive dental care.
If you are concerned about the safety of fluoride, speak to your dentist to get the facts and make an educated decision about the best options for your dental health.
A Smart Approach to Protecting Your Smile
Fluoride remains one of the most valuable tools in dental care. From fluoridated water to fluoride toothpastes, dental products with fluoride have protected millions of adults and children from tooth decay.
Even as the national conversation continues, families in Colorado can feel confident choosing science-backed dental care.
At Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics, we help parents make informed, confident decisions about dental health, from daily dental care routines to understanding fluoride concentrations in your water.
Schedule a Visit Today
If it’s been a while since you or your child had a checkup and cleaning, or if you are unsure about your local water supply’s fluoride level, we can help!
Schedule an appointment at one of our four locations today to discuss your family’s fluoride needs and ensure everyone is getting the right care to protect their smiles.
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
