Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally. It helps to prevent cavities and build strong teeth.
Fluoride treatments contain high fluoride concentrations that help improve the teeth’ health and lower the risk of developing cavities. When you visit a dental office for fluoride treatment, a hygienist or dentist will apply it to your teeth. The treatment can be in the form of a gel, foam, solution, or varnish.
There are two forms of fluoride treatment that is systemic and topical. Topical treatments are administered at the dentist’s office. They are applied to the enamel of the tooth by rinses and toothpaste, while systemic fluorides are taken like dietary supplements or fluoridated water.
Visit R. Boyd Gilleland DDS if you are seeking fluoride treatment in Port Charlotte, FL.
How Fluoride Deals with Tooth Sensitivity
Factors such as aggressive tooth brushing, a diet with high acidic beverages and foods, genetics, and poor oral hygiene can make teeth develop sensitivity to cold, heat, and air pressure. Significant sensitivity may be an indication of gum disease, tooth decay, or other health problems.
Fluoride treatment is one way of teeth desensitization. Fluoride contains natural minerals that help teeth in the fight against tooth decay and sensitivity.
Saliva contains phosphate and calcium that continuously washes our teeth, protects them, and keeps them healthy. When fluoride is present through various sources such as drinking water, toothpaste, and mouth wash, it combines with salivary minerals to form a compound known as fluorapatite, creating the best protection against bacteria that causes cavities within your mouth.
Along getting fluoride treatment, you can also consider the following modifications to prevent further occurrence of sensitive teeth:
- Brush your teeth using anti-sensitivity toothpaste
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles when brushing your teeth
- Avoid highly acidic beverages and foods such as citrus and soda
- Visit a dentist’s office for cleaning and checkup after every six months
Our dentists in Port Charlotte, FL 33952, USA, recommend getting fluoride treatment at least three times a year. Our dental practitioners also offer consultation for additional information regarding the treatment.
Reasons Why Dental Experts Use fluoride
- It helps the body to use minerals like calcium and phosphate better. Teeth reabsorb these minerals to reinstate weak tooth enamel.
- During tooth development, fluoride joins the tooth structure to strengthen the tooth enamel, making it less vulnerable to cavities and bacteria for life.
- It reverses or slows the development of cavities by impairing bacteria that cause cavities.
By preventing cavities, fluoride treatment can also:
- Reduce tooth pain
- Prevent gum disease
- Prevent the premature loss of teeth
What Happens During In-Office Fluoride Treatment?
A certified cosmetic dentist near you can provide fluoride treatment. Dentists use mouthwash, swab, tray, or a brush to apply the treatment. The in-office treatment has a high fluoride concentration compared to products secured at a chemist. Application takes few minutes, and for the next half hour, you should not eat or drink anything.
The status of your oral health determines the frequency of your fluoride treatment. The dentist may recommend visiting a dental office every 12, six, or three months. He or she may also suggest various preventive measures if you are likely to develop caries.
Foods that contain fluoride include tea, potatoes, shrimps, grapes, water, infant formula, and foods prepared in water.
Situations When Fluoride is Most Essential
It is essential for infants, children, and teenagers between the ages of 6 and 16 should get fluoride supplements more. At this age, deciduous and permanent teeth develop; therefore, they require protection against bacterial damage and strength.
Individuals with the following conditions require more fluoride intake to avoid severe dental issues.
- Gum disease – gum diseases expose your gums and roots to harmful bacteria. It increases the chances of getting tooth decay, but a fluoride foam treatment can reverse it.
- Dry mouth illnesses – Some medications, neck and head radial treatment, or Sjogren’s syndrome can cause dry mouths. A dry mouth increases one’s vulnerability to tooth decay.
- Medical history of cavities – people prone to cavities every year should seek fluoride treatment.
- Availability of dental devices – Bridges, crowns, and braces can increase your risk of decay. When a crown comes into contact with the internal tooth structure, it exposes the tooth to bacteria.
When fluoride is taken in high doses, it can cause tooth discoloration.