In general dentistry, fluoride treatments are common. Fluoride is a mineral found in bones and teeth, as well as water, plants, soil, rocks, and air. When used by dentists, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel. Therefore, dentists generally use fluoride as a preventative treatment against cavities. Additionally, fluoride can be found in most public water supplies. In communities where fluoride cannot be added to the water, professionals can add it to milk or salt to help reduce the chance of cavity development.
Patients who want to take steps to prevent tooth decay have the option of fluoridated toothpaste, mouth rinses, foams, and varnishes. Periodic fluoride treatments can be provided in a general dentistry office. Most patients benefit from a treatment every six to 12 months. However, for those who have a high risk of cavities, more appointments may be preferable.
Dental plaque is a sticky film that may build upon a patient's teeth over time. The plaque builds up due to sugar and starch consumption and poor brushing habits. As bacteria feed on the sugar, plaque forms. If the plaque remains on the teeth, it hardens into tartar and shields the bacteria. In addition, the acid within the plaque removes the minerals in the other enamel and can develop into cavities.
Fluoride protects the teeth from bacteria. Tooth enamel is less vulnerable to acid when treated with fluoride. Additionally, in the early stages of decay, fluoride can repair tooth decay. It brings calcium and phosphate ions together and speeds up the formation of a new surface.
All people are prone to tooth decay. However, some younger children may be more vulnerable because they rely on their parents to maintain their developing teeth. Additionally, children have weaker teeth, and to establish a long life of good oral health habits, the habits should be introduced early on. Fluoride exposure protects a child's teeth from decay and protects the development of permanent teeth.
In adulthood, fluoride continues to protect a patient's teeth. Fluoride supplements and other treatments can benefit adults for patients with gum disease, dry mouth, or frequent cavities. When fluoride interacts with the teeth, it forms a material called fluorapatite.
Fluoride has enough research behind it for the dental community to trust it. For 70 years, fluoridation has proved safe and effective. Fortifying food or water with fluoride is safe and no different than fortifying other foods and beverages with vitamins and nutrients. Patients could find fluoride naturally in oceans and groundwater, so adding it to the water supply is harmless and beneficial to those who consume it.
Children and adults of all ages can benefit from the use of fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that may strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. Fluoride treatments come in a variety of options. For example, patients may choose to have a foam or gel applied to their teeth or choose a toothpaste with fluoride added from a general dentistry office.
Request an appointment here: https://yourbrilliantsmile.com or call Kevin S. Bone D.D.S. at (989) 272-4253 for an appointment in our Saginaw office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry in Saginaw, MI.
Asking a general dentist for guidance on what to do when experiencing tooth pain is a great idea. General dentists are dental professionals who often provide their patients with helpful tips when experiencing dental problems. Since there are many reasons for tooth pain, understanding the reasons is also necessary.Visiting a general dentist allows patients to…
Regular visits to the general dentist for a Dental Checkup are vital for anyone who wants to maintain good oral health. Oral hygiene is important, and even with daily brushing and flossing, there is a chance that undetected oral issues such as cavities and receding gum lines could be present, which might require a proper…
A dental cleaning is a procedure that helps with the routine maintenance of teeth. Patients who practice good oral habits see their dentists every six months. During these routine appointments, a dentist adds teeth cleaning to their to-do list.Not all dental cleanings are the same. Some patients may have oral health issues that require a…
Going in for routine dental care does not have to be a scary process. Many patients feel so nervous about this visit that they may put off appointments for months or even years. If you regularly go to the dentist for teeth cleanings and examinations, you can keep cavities and gum disease at bay. Maintaining…
When treating a cavity, your dentist needs to remove the decaying portion of the tooth and then “fill” it with a dental filling. The material is beneficial for repairing broken, decayed, and worn down teeth. Tooth decay only gets worse, which makes it extremely important to treat it as soon as possible. Most people do not…
Many general dentists offer dental implant restoration to treat tooth loss. They can also repair the dental implant restoration if anything happens, or they may recommend the patient to an oral surgeon for the most effective treatment if severe concerns develop. It is beneficial to understand what options you have if anything goes wrong with your…