What Is Fluoride Treatment? What Are Its Benefits

The two types of processes damage the tooth enamel-

• Demineralization: Acid formed from the bacteria causing plaque and sugars in the mouth attacks the enamel.
• Remineralisation: Minerals such as fluoride, calcium and phosphate consumed form the foods and water redeposit on the enamel layer.

This lack of remineralisation and increase of demineralization leads to tooth decay and cavities. It can be prevented with the help of fluoride. This prevents cavities in children and tooth decay in adults. It makes the outer surface of the tooth enamel resistant to acid attacks.

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in foods and water. It can also be applied directly to the teeth through fluoridated toothpaste and mouth rinses. Usually, mouth rinses contain less percentage of fluoride which is available at over-the-counter. To use a fluoride-containing high percentage, the dentist prescription is required.

In Bloomfield, fluoride treatments are given at the dentist’s office to the children. These treatments contain a high percentage of fluoride than toothpaste and mouth rinses. The fluoride is applied to the teeth in the form of gel, foam or varnish with a swab, brush, tray or mouthwash. This treatment requires only a few minutes. For 30 minutes, the dentist will ask to avoid eating or drinking for the complete absorption of fluoride. Always inform the dentist about your health history so the right treatment can be recommended.

The teeth should be clean before going for an in-office fluoride treatment in Houston. If there are any stains, the dentist will remove them. Brush and floss your teeth if you are using fluoride rinse or gels at home. Use fluoride products before sleeping so they will not get rinsed or washed.

Pediatric dentist in 06002 recommends fluoride for infants and children between the age of 6 months and 16 years. During this time, permanent teeth develop. Fluoride protects from decay, cavities and strengthens the teeth. The common sources of fluoride are fluoridated drinking water, toothpaste and mouth rinses. Benefits of fluoride for children-

Fluoride toothpaste

Toothpaste containing fluoride prevents cavities in children and adults too. It strengthens the exposed roots and prevents early stages of tooth decay.

• Take your child to the dentist to learn brushing techniques.
• Make them brush regularly with fluoridated toothpaste.
• Children below 6 years should use a little amount of toothpaste containing fluoride.

Fluoride mouthwash

Rinse the mouth with fluoride-containing mouthwash to protect the teeth from cavities. In the market, there are many types of mouthwash available which contains fluoride.

Fluoride water

As per pediatric dentist in Bloomfield, adding fluoride into the drinking water of children is one of the easiest and cost-effective ways. This method protects children teeth from tooth decay.

• If you are not sure about the fluoride levels in the water, then visit the dental professional.
• If water does not contain fluoride, the dental professional will prescribe fluoride tablets.
• Fluoride water minimizes the risk of damage to the teeth which sugar intake may cause.

Therefore, fluoride treatment helps in preventing decay and cavities in children and adults too.

Are there any risks with the use of fluoride?

If fluoride is used safely, it is safe and effective. It can be risky if consumed over because the dosage differs according to body weight. Therefore, it is important for parents to carefully check their children’s use of fluoride-containing products. Excessive use of fluoride can cause damage to tooth enamel which is not noticeable initially. It is visible when the permanent teeth develop in the children below 6 years. Such stains can be removed with normal hygiene or lighten with professional bleaches.

• Store fluoride supplements away from young children.
• Do not use flavoured toothpaste.
• Use a little amount of fluoride toothpaste for children.

Intake of too much of fluoride can cause-

• White specks on permanent teeth
• Staining and pitting on teeth
• Bones get dense which are not much strong

Overdose of fluoride supplements can cause-

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Tiredness
• Sweating

Therefore, oral health affects other body functions and overall health. If you are looking for a pediatric dentist near me to know more about the fluoride treatment for your child, then visit Bloomfield pediatric dentistry.