Get Fluoride in Food and Water

What you eat and drink can help provide healthy levels of fluoride. Fluoride, a mineral, helps to prevent tooth decay. It is naturally found in water and food.

Fluoride in Water

All water contains small amounts fluoride, though usually it is not enough to prevent tooth decay, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many cities and towns add fluoride to their water supplies, also called fluoridation, to help fight cavities.

Fluoridation is the single most effective public-health program to prevent tooth decay, says the American Dental Association. Children had three times as many cavities before fluoride was added to water.

Most bottled water does not contain fluoride. Ask your local government office if your community’s water contains the fluoride that your family needs.

Fluoride in Food

Some foods contain small amounts of fluoride, says the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Try adding these to your shopping list:

Oatmeal.
Raisins.
Potatoes.
Black and green tea (brewed, not bottled).

At DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S., encourages safely protecting your teeth with fluoride. Contact your dentist for a checkup. Ask about the best ways to protect your teeth, including fluoride varnish and getting some fluoride from a healthy diet.