Fluoride Treatment: Purpose, Process, Benefits, and Recommendations
Dental caries, commonly known as cavities, are caused by disease or acid-causing bacteria that accumulate around the teeth and gums in a sticky film called plaques. Without good dental hygiene practices, the plaques build up and put the teeth at risk of developing caries. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and rinsing the mouth after eating will help remove the plaques. Regular dental cleaning and examination are also important in maintaining your oral health.
Another preventive measure that you need is fluoride treatment in Hemet, CA. This professional treatment will strengthen the enamel and make it less prone to developing cavities.
Fluoride treatment is recommended as a preventive dental practice to enhance the health of your teeth and gums. Before you visit a dentist near you for fluoride, here is what you need to know.
What is Fluoride Treatment?
The body takes fluoride in two ways; topical and systemic. Both are crucial in strengthening your teeth. Topical fluorides are applied to the enamel to keep it strong. Some of the examples include toothpaste, mouth rinses, and in-office fluoride treatments.
Systemic fluorides, on the other hand, include products that can be swallowed like supplements, food, and water. The maximum protection and reduction of dental cavities are achieved when fluoride is used both topically and systematically.
Why Is Fluoride Important?
Every day our teeth go through two processes; demineralization and re-mineralization. Demineralization occurs when the enamel is stripped of the vital minerals—phosphate and calcium. These minerals strengthen the enamel and make it strong and hard to withstand bacterial attacks. When these minerals are lost, the enamel becomes a little weaker.
Re-mineralization is when the enamel reabsorbs these minerals. This occurs when it is provided with essential minerals like fluoride. When you brush or rinse the mouth with a fluoride mouthwash, the enamel can reverse the demineralization process.
Fluoride also prevents bacterial attacks and also reverses mild tooth decay.
When Does the Dentist Recommend Fluoride Treatment?
Our Hemet dentist can recommend a fluoride treatment in the following situations:
- Dry mouth
- Periodontitis
- Dental restorations
- Radiation therapy
Saliva plays a crucial role in keeping the mouth healthy. It removes the food particles and also supplies the enamel with minerals it requires to stay strong. When you suffer from dryness due to certain diseases or medication, the production of saliva is reduced. This increases the risk of decay because the food particles will accumulate in the teeth and gums. The buildup also gives room for the acid-causing bacteria to grow and affect the teeth.
Aside from treating the diseases that cause dry mouth, the dentist may also recommend fluoride treatments to keep the mouth healthy.
Gum disease exposes the root of the teeth to bacteria, which increases the risk of developing tooth decay. The dentist may apply varnish or gel on the teeth to strengthen the root and also prevent further deterioration.
Dental restorations like bridges, veneers, and crowns can increase the risk of decay. The edges of these restorations can trap food particles and put you at risk of cavities. Regular use of fluoride can help reduce the risk.
If you are undergoing radiation therapy, the dentist can recommend fluoride treatment as part of the measures to maintain your oral health. Radiation therapy damages the salivary glands that can cause dry mouth.
How Is It Done?
Professional fluoride treatment is done in 30 minutes, After cleaning, the dentist will apply varnish, gel, or foam on the teeth. You are advised not to eat anything in the first 30 minutes to allow the enamel to absorb the fluoride.
Are There Side Effects?
Fluoride overdose is rare, but it can develop. Fluorosis can cause tooth discoloration and white patches on the teeth. It can also cause toxicity and dense bones.
What Are the Recommendations?
Fluoride treatment is recommended for all people above age six. Children below six years are not eligible for fluoride treatment, but they need fluoride. They can use fluoride toothpaste but ensure you monitor your child to prevent them from swallowing.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Glenn C. delaRoca DDS for more information about fluoride treatments. Call us now to book a consultation with our dentist and learn more about Fluoride Treatment in Hemet, CA. We also welcome patients from East Hemet, Egan, Ramona Bowl, Valle Vista, San Jacinto, East Washington Avenue, Skyview Drive, and surrounding areas.