Is Fluoride Treatment Necessary?

If you don’t care for your teeth and have proper dental hygiene, you will develop cavities. That is why it is recommended that you use fluoride toothpaste to keep the teeth protected. However, if you are at risk of cavities, fluoride treatments are the ideal solution. The treatment is done at the dental office during your annual dental checkup.

But, is fluoride treatment necessary for everyone? Well, dentists recommend it as it helps to prevent cavities, but it is more suitable for people who are at risk of cavities. It is important to visit our dentist for information on fluoride dental treatment in Auburn 36830, and if you are eligible or not. In this post, we answer some of the common questions on fluoride treatment.

What is Fluoride Treatment?

Fluoride treatment is a professional treatment that involves the application of a high concentration of fluoride on the teeth. The mineral strengthens the enamel and makes it less prone to cavities.

The treatment can be either topical or systemic. A topical fluoride treatment involves products applied to the enamel such as toothpaste, mouth rinse, varnish, foam, or gel. Systemic treatment includes products that can be ingested like supplements, food, and water. You need both forms of treatments to keep your teeth strong.

Is Fluoride Necessary?

Fluoride is the natural cavity fighter and it helps to re-mineralize the enamel. Every day, our teeth go through demineralization and re-mineralization. Because of food and other dental habits, essential minerals like calcium and phosphate are stripped off. This wears out the enamel and makes it weaker. However, your teeth can reverse the process using minerals like fluoride.

Furthermore, fluoride helps to neutralize the ph in the mouth and makes it less acidic. When you eat sugary foods, the bacteria in the mouth break it down and produce an acid solution. This solution attacks the enamel and leads to the formation of tiny holes and cavities.

Using fluoride is important for strengthening your teeth and preventing teeth from decaying.

When is Fluoride Treatment Recommended?

Fluoride is recommended for children because they are prone to cavities. However, we have fluoride treatment for adults who are at risk of cavities. Dr. Mark Summeford can also recommend fluoride if you have these dental situations:

• Dry mouth. Saliva cleans the teeth of any food particles. Plus, it also contains fluoride and therefore keeps the teeth strong and prevents bacterial growth. Having a low production of saliva because of disease or medication can increase your risk of developing dental cavities.
• Dental restorations. If you have crowns and bridges, you need fluoride treatment. This is because these restorations can trap food particles underneath and affect your natural teeth.
• Periodontal disease. Gum infection can cause the gums to recede and expose the root of the teeth to bacterial attacks, making them prone to decay.
• Radiation therapy. Radiation can cause dry mouth and increase the risk of decay. Plus, it increases the risk of demineralization.

How is the Treatment Done?

Fluoride treatment is done at the dental office during your routine oral checkup and cleaning. The dentist will apply either varnish, gel, or foam on the teeth and allow them to be absorbed. You need to stay for at least 30 minutes after the fluoride is applied to allow the enamel to absorb the fluoride and strengthen the teeth.

How to Care for Your Teeth After a Fluoride Treatment?

How you take care of your teeth after a fluoride treatment will determine the success of the treatment. When you can eat and what you eat and don’t eat after fluoride treatment is important.

While fluoride treatment does not affect your eating habits, there are certain foods you need to avoid. These include spicy, citrus foods, crunch, sticky and cold foods, and drinks.

Immediately after fluoride treatment take soft food, soups, and eggs.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Fluoride treatment is done when you use it in the correct dosage. Overdose can lead to fluorosis, which leads to discoloration and white patches.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Central Park Dental Care for an assessment of your eligibility for fluoride information and what to expect.