Dental Fluoride and the Effects on Oral Health

Dental fluoride offers a good option for helping to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. It is a natural mineral that is essential to oral health and has been used as a treatment for decades. Fluoride supports healthy tooth development and strong enamel. It also fights bacteria that can harm and damage teeth as well as the gums. The main focus of fluoride treatment is to protect the outer layer of the tooth known as the enamel. This type of treatment can reduce the risk of developing cavities. Keep in mind that cavities develop when bacteria builds-up on the teeth and gums over time. Bacteria when given time can produce plaque that results in acid which erodes teeth and gum tissue. If the plaque is given enough time to break down the tooth enamel layer, bacteria can then work its way into the inner part of the truth affecting nerves and blood at the tooth core.

Fluoride Mouthwash

The good news is that professional fluoride treatments can help to reduce the chances of having teeth become damaged because of plaque and tartar buildup. Your dentist will provide a professional application of fluoride in the form of a highly concentrated varnish, foam, gel or rinse. The treatment is typically applied using an array of different techniques. It can be applied using everything from a fluoride mouthwash to brush or tray or even a swab. Best of all, the treatment only takes a few minutes and has lasting effects on protecting the teeth. In most cases patients should avoid eating or drinking for up to an hour following the treatment or application. This allows the fluoride to become fully absorbed into the tooth enamel.

Preventative Options

Working closely with your dental care provider is the best way to ensure that you gain the most from this type of preventative treatment. In addition to fluoride application, children may be given the option to have sealant applied as a way to protect teeth from damaging bacteria. Your dentist will know for sure which technique or strategy would be best for you and your children. Either way one thing is sure and that is that today’s modern dentistry offers many preventative options as a way to keep teeth healthy, strong, vibrant and attractive. As a note there are many over-the-counter fluoride treatments that are also available. This is another case where checking with your dentist, is a good place to begin. Contact your Pinole dentists, Dr. Azadeh Hosseini and Dr. Ghazal Hosseini at Top Pinole Dental today for more information on fluoride treatment.

References:
[1] Fluoride Treatment and How it Impacts Oral Health
[2] The Prevention of Tooth Decay