Why Is Fluoride So Significant for Your Dental Wellbeing?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that has several beneficial effects on dental health. It prevents teeth from decaying, cavities, and strengthens the enamel. You can find fluoridated water in many places – it’s added to public water supplies for the prevention of tooth decay for children under six years old.

Understanding How Fluoride Works?

Fluoride helps demineralization and remineralization that occur in your mouth. The plaque bacteria feed on sugar and other carbohydrates in your mouth, creating acidic saliva that erodes tooth enamel. Fluoride aids in the remineralization process and strengthens the enamel, helping to return it to its original condition. Fluoride makes your tooth enamel more resistant to plaque acids and helps repair early fluoride damage before teeth are visibly stained or damaged. It also reverses surface damage such as cavities and white spots.

When is Fluoride Most Needed?

Fluoride is recommended for both children and adults. However, there are times when fluoride treatment in Edmonton, AB, is critical, and they include:

• Dry mouth: Saliva is a natural cleanser that helps rid the mouth of food particles, neutralize acid, and prevent tooth decay. When people do not produce enough saliva, the food particles remain in the mouth and cause cavities or tooth decay.
• Gum disease: Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a common condition that affects the mouth and teeth. There are many different stages of periodontitis, some of which can be detected by your dentist.
• Teeth with metal crowns or bridges or braces are at risk for decay. Bacteria can sneak in at the point where the crown meets the underlying tooth structure or around the brackets of an orthodontic appliance.

What are the Benefits of Fluoride Treatment?

When it comes to dental care, fluoride is a necessity. It helps in fighting tooth decay and cavities. Fluoride treatment is also good for the overall health of a person.

• Fluoride treatment can improve your overall health by preventing and lessening diseases like decay.
• It helps in reducing gingivitis, plaque buildup, and periodontal disease.

How is Fluoride Administered?

Our dentist in Rosslyn can administer fluoride in different ways depending on the type.

• Fluoride varnish is a fluoride treatment painted on the teeth. It is fast-acting and helps to prevent tooth decay and cavities.
• Fluoride gel is another fluoride treatment that is used. It is put into a mouth tray and left in the mouth for a few minutes.
• Fluoride tablets are also available and can be taken once a day. They help to prevent tooth decay and cavities.
• A fluoride rinse is a fluoride treatment is to help reduce plaque and gingivitis. It is a great way to help keep your teeth healthy and fluoride-free.

What Are the Side Effects of Fluoride Treatment?

Possible side effects of fluoride treatment include:

• Mild irritation to the inside of the cheek or lips, which clear within a couple of hours
• You may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks after you have had your fluoride treatment. You can use tooth-sensitive toothpaste to ease discomfort.
• Mild swelling around the mouth, which may also occur temporarily
• Fluorosis can also cause teeth discoloration. It leads to the formation of white or brown patches on the teeth. It may also cause the bones to become weak and dense. A dentist near you will give you instructions on how to use fluoride to prevent an overdose in children.

What Are Other Preventive Dental Procedures?

Aside from fluoride treatments, many other preventive dental procedures can help keep your teeth healthy. Preventive dental treatments include:

• Professional dental cleaning. This is when a dentist or hygienist professionally cleans the teeth to remove tartar and plaque build-up. It helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
• Sealants. A sealant is a plastic coating that is used to cover the tooth surface and prevent tooth decay. These preventive restoration is ideal for children and adults alike.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Kensington Dental Clinic for more information about fluoride treatment and what to expect.