Fluoride Treatments For Added Protection
What is fluoride and how can these treatments benefit you?
Fluoride is a naturally – occurring mineral that helps strengthen & harden tooth enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay.
Our teeth absorb fluoride in two ways: systemically and topically-:
Systemic fluorides are swallowed. These include fluoridated water (most tap water) and dietary fluoride supplements.
Topical fluoride is applied directly to the teeth via toothpaste, mouth rinses and treatments at the dentist.
Benefits of fluoride treatments
Teeth are primarily made up of the 2 minerals calcium and phosphate.
The calcium phosphate compound in teeth, with added fluoride in it, is more resistant to future decay & acid wear.
Fluoride helps repair & harden weakened tooth enamel by being incorporated into the tooth and forming stronger/ harder teeth minerals.
Fluoride treatments applied by a dentist are beneficial in that they help to prevent dental decay and keep teeth strong.
Fluoride is especially good for those with a higher risk for tooth decay or tooth erosion (due to acid wear), or for conditions like having a dry mouth, weak enamel, poor oral health, or if they have crowns and have undergone multiple restorations (fillings) in the past.
In all these cases, applying fluoride would help protect your teeth.
What are fluoride treatments like?
Professional fluoride treatments usually only take a few minutes. The fluoride might come in the form of a gel, or varnish. It is either applied with a brush or placed in a tray held in the mouth for a few minutes.
After the treatment is applied, it is recommended to not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride and help repair microscopic areas of decay.
Depending on your oral health, fluoride treatments can be recommended every 6–12 months. If there is a higher risk of developing tooth decay, other preventive measures, such as over – the – counter / prescription fluoride mouth rinses or gels, or an antibacterial mouth rinse can also be recommended.
Should children have Flouride Treatment?
It is recommended that children under two years old should use a fluoride free toothpaste.
This is because if too much fluoride is ingested as a young child, it may get incorporated in the developing adult tooth leading to dental fluorosis.
Benefits of Flouride Treatment
Ask us about the benefits of fluoride treatments, and keep up your daily dental hygiene regimen. They’re both excellent ways to help maintain your strong, healthy smile!!
