How Long Does Fluoride Last in Toothpaste?

Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay. Most water supplies contain some fluoride, and in the early 20th century, levels of dental decay were found to be associated with fluoride levels in drinking water. When you visit the Conway pediatric dentist with your child for fluoride treatment, the professional will check your child's teeth and administer fluoride therapy using a rinse, varnish, foam, or gel. Fluoride treatment is repeated at least three or four times a year for it to be effective.

If you are at high risk of developing tooth decay and cavities, fluoride treatments will be particularly helpful. The American Dental Association has recommended that professional fluoride treatments be needed at the dentist's office every three, six, or 12 months, depending on the person's oral health. However, sometimes a condition called dental fluorosis can occur if a child's teeth are exposed to too much fluoride during their development. When you combine the benefits of fluoride treatments, the risk of tooth decay is reduced, the need for expensive dental procedures is increased, the life of primary teeth is extended, and the time and money that the dentist must spend repairing the holes is reduced.

This means that fluoride has been added to reach around 1 mg of fluoride per liter of water, a level that has been shown to reduce levels of tooth decay. Before you consider switching to fluoride-free toothpaste to avoid expiration, remember that fluoride is an essential ingredient for healthy teeth. So how long does fluoride last in toothpaste? Generally speaking, it lasts about two years from when it was manufactured. This means that if you want to get the most out of your toothpaste and ensure that it contains enough fluoride, it's important to check the expiration date on the packaging before using it. It's also important to note that while fluoride is an important part of maintaining healthy teeth, it's not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing.

It's still important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day in order to keep your teeth clean and healthy.