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://www.leixdental.com or call Leix Dental at (815) 604-6104 for an appointment in our Lakewood office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry in Lakewood, IL.
Not flossing regularly can increase the risk of developing oral health concerns, such as dental cavities and periodontal disease, so a general dentist encourages patients to floss several times a day and stick to a consistent oral care schedule to reduce the risk of oral health complications in the future. Flossing is essential to good oral…
A general dentist might recommend that patients get x-rays during a dental appointment. X-rays serve many purposes in dentistry, from providing a closer look at the health of the oral cavity to checking a child’s bite alignment. Although certain factors necessitate the need for dental x-rays, there is a basic guideline used by general dentists…
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…
Thinking you want to prevent yourself from having to get dental fillings? No one wants to have a cavity, but when they do, it needs to be filled in order to protect the tooth. While it is indeed necessary for you to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss your teeth at…
A cosmetic dentist focuses on improving a person’s smile to boost their confidence and help them achieve their desired look. From crooked teeth to unsightly blemishes, many problems are fixable due to the hard work of cosmetic dentists. Here are a few of the ways in which a cosmetic dentist can revitalize the look of…
Are you considering cosmetic dental services to enhance your smile? Some people may think that cosmetic treatments are only about appearances. However, many cosmetic dental services are functional and cosmetic. Having straight teeth and an aligned bite can improve your smile in more than just appearance.Over the years, modern cosmetic dentistry has expanded to include…