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.7300FranceDental.com or call France Dental at (952) 254-4266 for an appointment in our Edina office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry in Edina, MN.
Regular general dentistry visits are necessary for a number of reasons, however, it ultimately comes down to oral health maintenance and preventive care, both of which can only be done in a professional dentistry setting. Keep reading to find out more about the importance of general dentistry visits.Outlined below are a few reasons why regular…
After each routine visit to your general dentist, you may receive a few tips or recommendations from your dentist to continue to maintain or boost your oral health. Although these tips vary from patient to patient, there are a few tips that dentists share across the board.Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth at least…
An abscessed tooth is one of the most troubling oral health concerns you could have. This condition not only can affect a single tooth, but it might spread throughout your jaw. If you do not see a general dentist, an abscess could even move into other areas of your body, causing further problems and health…
Minimally invasive dentistry is a great way to conserve the structural integrity of your teeth by preventing tooth decay and treating concerns in a minimally invasive manner. Anyone who is concerned that dental work is too invasive, expensive or requires long recovery times should consider how minimally invasive dentistry can benefit them. By learning more about…
A root canal cleans out infection from the interior of a tooth, but dentists will attempt other options, such as dental fillings, when possible. Therefore, it can be hard for patients to know when they may need a root canal or whether a problem can be solved in another way. The signs that you may…
A minor broken tooth may not require immediate treatment, but more severe breaks can become very problematic if left untreated. It is important to be able to assess the severity of a broken tooth to determine if an emergency trip to the dentist is necessary or if the initial symptoms can be managed at home. A…