Fluoride treatment is an integral part of preventive dentistry care for adults and children. Most likely, you have heard about the effectiveness of this procedure. But how do fluoride treatments work? In this article, we discuss the procedure and its benefits for your oral health.
How Do Fluoride Treatments Work?
The main benefit of dental fluoride is that it helps prevent cavities. This mineral works by remineralizing the enamel of your teeth—their protective barrier. Fluoride treatments help restore calcium and phosphate ions in the enamel and restrain bacterial growth. As a result, the teeth become more resistant to bacteria and decay.
Fluoride treatments can benefit patients of all ages. They help children develop stronger enamel, and adults preserve their dental health. They are also proven to be especially beneficial for patients with gum recession and exposed tooth roots. In addition, fluoride is recommended for people who have conditions or take medications that can weaken teeth.
The Procedure of Fluoride Treatment
Typically, fluoride treatment is absolutely painless and takes only a couple of minutes. During the procedure, fluoride is applied to the teeth in one of several available ways: varnish, foam, gel, or on a tray. Fluoride has the best effect if applied after a professional dental cleaning. Removing plaque and tartar during a cleaning helps fluoride penetrate the enamel more effectively.
Why Do We Need to Protect Our Teeth from Bacteria?
If bacteria linger on the teeth for too long, they start eating away at the enamel. Insufficient oral hygiene leads to bacterial growth within food residue on the teeth. Over time, plaque starts accumulating on the teeth, later hardening and turning into tartar. As a result, cavities develop and can lead to severe tooth decay and tooth loss if left untreated. Bacterial growth in the mouth is the leading cause of gum disease and can also result in general health issues.
Thus, helping our teeth resist bacteria with fluoride treatments can prevent severe oral and general health issues and also save us time and money in the future by avoiding costly and more complicated treatments.
Types of Professional Fluoride Treatments
As we mentioned before, professional fluoride treatments come in several formats:
- In a tray with fluoride solution that is placed over the teeth
- Application of a fluoride solution (a gel or a varnish) directly onto the teeth
Typically, your dentist will ask you to abstain from eating or drinking for an hour after the treatment to allow the fluoride to absorb into the enamel.
Over-the-counter Fluoride Products
If you want to enhance your daily oral care routine, we recommend choosing toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride. In addition, there are drinks and supplements available that contain fluoride. However, we recommend consulting your primary care provider before deciding to take such products. Also, you can look into consuming more foods that naturally contain fluoride:
- Raisins and grapes
- Fruits such as apples, cherries, bananas, strawberries, etc.
- Vegetables such as spinach and potatoes
- Seafood
Do Fluoride Treatments Have Side Effects?
It is a common misconception that fluoride is dangerous and toxic. In fact, it is not that easy to reach levels at which fluoride might become dangerous by using fluoride toothpaste or having fluoride treatments at a dental office. However, if you have concerns regarding your or your child’s fluoride intake, consult your primary care provider.
If fluoride is used correctly, it is safe for you and, in most cases, does not have any side effects. If present, the most common side effect of fluoride is tooth discoloration, called fluorosis. The discoloration might look like white or brown spots on teeth. Usually, this side effect occurs when excessive amounts of fluoride are taken internally with food or water.
Avoid using fluoride toothpaste for children under six years of age, as they are more likely to swallow it than older children or adults. If your child uses fluoride toothpaste, make sure they use only a small amount and spit it all out after brushing.
Make an Appointment Today
Do not hesitate to contact the dental office in Pomona today and make an appointment for a comprehensive examination of your oral health, professional teeth cleaning, and fluoride treatment. We encourage every patient to have preventive dentistry care that will save them time and money in the future. Our specialists are looking forward to your visit to Dental Care of Pomona.
