Fluoride treatment is a preventive dental procedure aimed at strengthening the teeth and improving oral health. But how do fluoride treatments work? In this article, we discuss the procedure and its benefits.
How Do Fluoride Treatments Work?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. In dentistry, it is used to remineralize and support the enamel of your teeth, making them more resilient to bacteria and decay. Additionally, it inhibits the growth of bacteria in the mouth and can even reverse the early signs of cavities.
Nowadays, many over-the-counter oral hygiene products contain fluoride, and they are beneficial to use on a daily basis. Professional fluoride solutions used in dental offices are more concentrated and provide an immediate boost to your oral health. Benefits of professional fluoride treatments include:
- Enamel strengthening
- Cavity prevention
- Indirect gum disease prevention due to reducing bacteria in the mouth
- Can reduce dental care costs overall
What Happens During a Fluoride Treatment?
Typically, a fluoride treatment is conducted after a professional cleaning, when all the plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth. This way, the application of fluoride is more even and the treatment is more effective.
Fluoride solutions used in dental offices come in several main forms:
- Fluoride varnish is a sticky substance that is applied directly to the teeth and remains there for one to several hours. This method allows a sustained release of fluoride during this time.
- Fluoride gel is typically placed into a tray that fits over the patient’s teeth. The tray is placed in the patient’s mouth for one to four minutes to allow the fluoride to penetrate the enamel.
- Fluoride foam is also administered on a tray, which remains in the mouth for several minutes.
- Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is typically only applied to areas of enamel damage. It can prevent further progression of small cavities.
How Often Should You Get Fluoride Treatments?
Regardless of the patient’s age, it is recommended to undergo fluoride treatments twice a year after dental cleanings. If your teeth are highly susceptible to cavities or the enamel is weakened, your doctor might recommend scheduling fluoride treatments more often.
What Are Other Sources of Fluoride?
Apart from over-the-counter oral hygiene products and professional treatments, you can get fluoride naturally if you include the following foods and drinks in your diet:
- Black and green tea
- Coffee
- Some types of bottled water or tap water, if it is fluoridized and safe to drink
- Seafood, such as fish and shellfish, canned salmon, sardines, shrimp, and crab
- Grapes and raisins
- Vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and spinach
- Barley and rice
Is Fluoride Safe?
When you receive fluoride in regular, recommended amounts, it is absolutely safe, according to many years of studies and research. However, we do not recommend taking any additional fluoride supplements without prior consultation with your general doctor and your dentist. Additionally, do not swallow your fluoride toothpaste, and monitor the use of fluoride toothpaste by your children to prevent swallowing.
Excessive and long-term exposure to fluoride can lead to such health issues as:
- Dental fluorosis: white spots or streaks on the teeth. Typically, this issue poses only cosmetic considerations.
- Skeletal fluorosis can be caused by ingesting excessively high levels of fluoride for many years. It can manifest in pain and stiffness in the joints and bones.
- Neurological concerns
Get a Fluoride Treatment at Dental Care of Chino Hills
Do not hesitate to schedule a professional cleaning and fluoride treatment with an experienced dentist at Dental Care of Chino Hills. Our specialists are dedicated to improving and preserving your oral health. We are looking forward to your visit.