Everything One Must Know About Fluoride Treatment
Give your teeth a ‘fluo-ride’ to a cavity-free, radiant, beaming smile. Fluoride is a wonder element from Mother Nature. Its subtle presence in something as basic as drinking water makes it easily available to us. It is vital for your overall and oral health. And you know what? The fluoride treatment in dentistry can be done by the dentist or by you! By remineralizing and protecting teeth, fluorides help combat the harmful effects of acids and bacteria, promoting stronger, healthier smiles. Fluoride treatment is routinely suggested by your cosmetic dentist in Dundas, especially after procedures like dental crowns and clear aligners, to prevent any unwanted enamel loss. Read on to find out all that you need to know about fluoride for tooth health.
Importance of Fluoride Treatment
In the era of going back-to-the-basics for healthcare, fluoride is the best way to keep your teeth healthy. They are directly involved in keeping your tooth enamel in perfect shape.
Here is why your cosmetic dentist in Dundas swears by the power of fluoride treatment:
- Fluoride treatment strengthens tooth enamel : Fluoride reduces the demineralization of the tooth enamel. It assists in adding mineral strength to it. With plaque and tartar building up in your mouth, the enamel is constantly exposed to acids and toxins produced by the bacteria. Fluoride ions interact with the calcium in your teeth and act as a protective barrier to the toxins.
- Reduces the risk of cavities : This is especially true for children and if you are prone to tooth decay. It maintains good oral health and prevents the need for more extensive dental treatments.
- It is cost-effective and preventive : It saves you from spending dollars on fillings, cosmetic tooth bonding, and repeated dental visits.
- Fluoride treatment is quick, painless, and easily : The process does not involve drilling, shaping, or grinding. You do not need anesthesia or antibiotics. It is easy for you and your kids as well.
- Fluoride treatments can be administered by your dentist or by you : Fluoride is applied professionally by dentists or used at home in the form of fluoridated toothpaste, mouthwash, and rinses.
Types of Fluoride Treatment that are available
There are several types of fluoride treatments available for dental use. These can be broadly categorized into two parts:
- Fluoride treatment at the dentist
- The dentist prescribed fluoride treatment at home
Fluoride treatment at the dentist
The cosmetic dentist in Dundas will recommend a fluoride treatment periodically to prevent unwanted cavities and subsequent tooth sensitivity. These include:
Topical Fluoride Treatments
These treatments involve the direct application of fluoride to the teeth. They can be performed in various forms, such as:
- Fluoride Varnish : A brush or cotton swab is used to apply a concentrated fluoride gel or varnish to the teeth. It adheres to the tooth surface and is gradually absorbed.
- Fluoride Gel : Usually, a tray that fits over the teeth is used to hold the thick fluoride gel. It is left on for a few minutes, allowing the teeth to absorb the fluoride.
- Fluoride Foam : Fluoride foam is applied to a tray and put over the teeth like gel. Fluoride is applied to the enamel as the foam spreads out and covers the teeth.
These are single-visit procedures and do not require frequent follow-ups.
The dentist prescribed fluoride treatment at home
It’s important to keep in mind that the recommended fluoride treatment may change depending on factors like age, oral health status, and individual needs. It’s best to consult with a dentist to determine the most suitable fluoride treatment for you, before buying the following OTC products
Fluoride in Toothpaste
Most toothpaste contains fluoride, which helps protect the teeth from decay during brushing. It is important to use fluoride toothpaste and follow proper brushing techniques.
Fluoride Mouthrinse
Fluoride-containing rinses like these are used 30 minutes after brushing and flossing. Swish an undiluted version of the mouthwash for about a minute and then spit it out. Following that, wait 30 minutes before eating anything. Fluoride mouthwashes are available without a prescription or over-the-counter.
Fluoride Supplements
These are oral fluoride-containing edibles, such as lozenges, drops, or pills. They are advised if they are at a higher risk of tooth decay or hail from areas where the drinking water source is known to be deficient in fluorides.
Takeaway
Fluoride treatment is an integral component of a comprehensive dental treatment plan. From children to adults, fluoride treatment is beneficial for individuals of all ages, contributing to better oral health and the prolonged longevity of your dental crowns and clear aligners. Incorporating this small piece of advice from your cosmetic dentist in Dundas empowers you to proactively safeguard your teeth and enjoy a lifetime of strong, healthy smiles.