Fluoride
Fluoride is a powerful tool that we use to fight cavities. By applying fluoride treatments to your teeth, our team can help you to have fewer dental problems. Many people get minor tooth decay, and this often turns into cavities. With fluoride treatment, you can help to prevent this from happening. Both children and adults can get these treatments as long as they have a basic level of tooth and gum health. When you go for your dental cleaning and exam, our team can apply these treatments as they are needed.
Getting Dental Health Treatments With Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that is found in nature, and it can help to make teeth stronger and help them to avoid cavities. For decades, it has been used as a way to protect the teeth and to make them stronger. It is an essential tool for the oral health of patients. The tooth enamel is the outer layer of a tooth that keeps it protected. Fluoride works to strengthen that enamel, and it helps to fight against bacteria that can cause harm to both the teeth and the gums.
If you have a high risk of getting cavities, fluoride is an important tool in the fight against them. When bacteria builds up on the teeth and in the gums, it creates a layer of plaque on the tooth. When this occurs, it creates cavities in the teeth. When plaque is present, it creates a damaging acid that can erode both the teeth and the gums. Plaque can then break down the enamel of the tooth. This allows bacteria to get inside and infect the tooth. It can also harm the nerves of the tooth. It’s a destructive force that can harm teeth and cause other problems in the mouth.
At North Florida Dentistry, we want to make sure you are well-protected against plaque and cavities. Using fluoride to help your teeth fight them is an important part of the preventative dentistry services that you get. Fluoride provides powerful protection that you shouldn’t go without. That’s why it’s so important to use a fluoride toothpaste at home as well.
Professional Fluoride Treatment
When you get fluoride treatments applied professionally, it is usually applied as a rinse, a gel, foam, or varnish. There are various ways that it can be applied, from using a mouthwash to placing it in a tray, brushing it on, or swabbing it onto the teeth. The fluoride treatments that are applied have a higher concentration of fluoride than you get in your toothpaste or drinking water.
This protective substance can be applied in just a few minutes. In many cases, you will be told not to eat or drink for half an hour after you have the fluoride applied to your teeth. This allows it to absorb into your teeth fully. It’s often recommended to get these treatments every few months in order to help to strengthen your teeth. Getting a fluoride treatment does depend on your oral health, and some patients may not be able to get them.
If you’re a good candidate for getting professional fluoride treatments, we can do them during your six-month dental exam and cleaning appointments. Call us today at North Florida Dentistry to make your appointment for an exam.