A Guide To Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a useful mineral that occurs naturally in water, although in varying amounts depending on the location. The mineral has been proven to be efficient in preventing tooth decay. It is, for this reason, it is usually added in most toothpaste brands. Furthermore, it’s added to water supplies if the levels are low through a process called fluoridation.
Tooth decay
Tooth decay is a giant hazard to dental health. Even though it is preventable, it remains to be among the leading causes of hospital admissions. Tooth decay occurs when the tooth tissues are destroyed by acids produced by bacteria hosted in dental plaque. Dental plaque is caused by poor dental hygiene, such as eating sugary foods and drinks and brushing teeth regularly and adequately.
Water fluoridation
Since most water supplies contain fluoride in varying levels, the compound is added to public water supplies to boost dental health. The process involves lowering the amounts if they are high in water and raising them if they are low.
Fluoride treatment
A dentist prescribes fluoride treatment if their assessment determines that your teeth are susceptible to attack by plaque and tartar. Additionally, fluoride supplements may be recommended. Both kids and adults can take the supplements.
Dentists’ recommendation on adults and children differs in specific ways. For children, dentists advise them to take fluoride supplements until they are age 16, while in adults, it’s prescribed to individuals with gum disease such as gingivitis and dry mouth conditions. Texas citizens are lucky because many dental clinics and practices conduct fluoride treatment in South Houston.
Dental fluoride prescribed by the dentist is usually more concentrated as compared to regular fluoride in your toothpaste. Dental fluoride is available in various forms, such as toothpaste and oral rinses. Once applied, it takes approximately half an hour to get absorbed by the enamel. During that absorption period, you should avoid eating or drinking anything.
- Fluoride toothpaste
Frequently brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste is very effective in protecting your teeth against tooth decay. Different kinds of toothpaste have different levels of fluoride, usually indicated on the side of the tube.
Toothpaste with 1350 – 1500 parts per million (ppm) is an ideal option. Dentists advise you to use high-strength toothpaste if you are at risk of tooth decay. While kids may brush only once per day, adults should brush at least twice.
- Fluoride mouth rinses
Fluoride mouth rinses are usually prescribed to adults and kids above 8 years with cases of tooth decay. Besides brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice per day, mouth rinses should be used daily. You should, however, not use mouth rinses at the same time when brushing teeth.
- Fluoride varnish
The dentist applies fluoride varnish to adult or baby teeth. The process involves painting a thin layer of varnish with high fluoride levels on the surface of the teeth. The process is repeated every 6 months to avoid tooth decay. The process strengthens the tooth enamel, thus making it more resilient against bacteria that cause tooth decay. A dentist can conduct this process near you because it does not require additional specialisation.
Pros
- Straightforward
- Painless
- It can be administered at home
Cons
- Requires a lot of time
Benefits of fluoride treatment
Although the pros have been covered, it’s essential to highlight some benefits of receiving this treatment;
- Strengthens the enamel, thus increasing resistance against bacteria
- It slows down and, in some cases, reverses the development of cavities.
- It helps the body utilize minerals such as calcium and phosphorous better.
- Prevent gum diseases, tooth pain, and premature teeth loss.
Is fluoride safe?
Even though there have been some concerns about the safety of fluoride, no convincing evidence has been cited. Nonetheless, children may suffer from dental fluorosis if their teeth are exposed to more than sufficient fluoride. The condition causes patches or discolorations of the enamel. It is therefore advisable to supervise your kids when using fluoride toothpaste.
Conclusion
Fluoride levels available in water, toothpaste, and fortified food are usually sufficient to achieve healthy teeth and gums. Dental assessment may, however, necessitate dental fluoride treatment.
If you are doubting where you can get fluoride treatment near you, worry no more. EZ Dental Clinic offers fluoride treatment in South Houston, TX, at affordable rates. Book an appointment and know whether or not you need fluoride treatment.