It can be in your toothpaste, your mouthwash and even your water. In fact, fluoridated water has been called one of the greatest public health accomplishments of the 20th century. But what makes it such a miracle mineral?

Fluoride is a natural substance that helps teeth resist demineralization (the tooth decay process), which happens when acids made by bacteria in your mouth attack and damage tooth enamel over a period of time. Even better, fluoride can help remineralize teeth and reverse the very early stages of decay.

Between drinking fluoridated community water and brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, most of us don’t have to worry about getting enough of the mineral. In the U.S., about 75 percent of people who get their water from a community water system have properly fluoridated water. This means that any time you use the tap to get a glass of water or drink coffee, tea or any other beverage prepared using fluoridated water, your teeth get bathed with a bit of fluoride.

If your community doesn’t fluoridate the water or if you prefer to hydrate via bottled water instead of the faucet, you may want to check with your dentist to learn if additional fluoride would be helpful for your teeth. If your dentist determines that you or your children need more fluoride and are at high risk for tooth decay, you have several options.

Depending on your age and needs, your dentist may paint your teeth with professional strength varnish, gel or foam. You can also be prescribed high strength fluoride gel that you put in custom-fit dental trays and apply to teeth, as necessary, if you are at high risk for decay. There are also over-the-counter fluoride rinses that might be helpful for adults and older kids, but should not be given to children under the age of six.   Young children will be more likely to swallow fluoride rinses instead of swishing and spitting. If you suspect you need more fluoride, consult your dentist to find out what option is best for you and your children.