Who Needs Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride is one of the best cavity fighters at a dentist’s disposal and helps to ensure your teeth stay healthy for a long time. When bacteria caused by plaque starts to break down the enamel of the teeth, fluoride can help to rebuild the enamel where it is breaking down. Through a process called remineralization, it can also repair tooth decay. Studies have shown that since fluoride was incorporated into toothpastes and mouthwashes in 1960, there has been a decline in the amount of cavities people get.

There are many ways to get more fluoride into our bodies. It is in many of the foods we eat and the beverages we drink, but there are still many people with levels of fluoride that are too low. Luckily, there are more concentrated fluoride treatments that your dentist can recommend in order to help strengthen the teeth.

Fluoride treatments are often recommended for children to help strengthen their teeth from an early age, but many adults discredit the way fluoride can help. In fact, adults need fluoride treatments even more than children since the enamel can break down easier for adults. Children have naturally higher levels of fluoride while adults do not.

There are several conditions that can benefit from additional fluoride treatments, such as:

• Molars that have large grooves and deep pits
• Those with a lot of previous dental work or a history of cavities
• Patients with gum disease and/or recessed gums
• Frequent snackers
• Chronic dry mouth

Fluoride treatments can be in the form of a gel, a foam, a liquid or a pill. It is quick and easy, and the treatment is normally done as part of your bi-annual checkup and examination. Think a fluoride treatment can help strengthen your teeth or combat one of the issues mentioned above? Give us a call to set up an appointment so we can help get your teeth as strong as possible!