Strengthen Your Oral Health
If you’re proactive about maintaining optimal oral health and preventing tooth decay, you’ve likely heard of fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and protects teeth from cavities. Our Warren, MI, dentist, Dr. Chirco, recommends this strengthening technique for many of her patients at Warren Family Dentistry.
Discover how fluoride treatments build your oral health from the enamel up.
What Are Fluoride Treatments?
Fluoride treatments are a preventative dental procedure that helps prevent tooth decay and strengthen tooth enamel. Fluoride naturally helps avoid cavities by making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth.
Who Needs Fluoride Treatments?
Dentists often recommend these treatments for children and adults at a higher risk for tooth decay, such as those with a history of the following:
- Cavities
- Braces
- Dry mouth
- Gum disease
Our Warren dentist also uses this effective treatment as a preventative measure for those who have good oral hygiene but want to maintain optimal oral health. This straightforward procedure is an easy way to guard your smile against tooth decay.
The Fluoride Treatment Process
Fluoride is a simple and painless procedure that helps prevent tooth decay and strengthen tooth enamel. To begin the process, Dr. Chirco will apply a fluoride gel or foam to your teeth using a tray or a brush. The fluoride will be left on your teeth for a few minutes while it penetrates the enamel and helps repair any damage.
It’s necessary to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to absorb into your teeth. Some patients may experience slight sensitivity or a bad taste in their mouth during or after the treatment, but these side effects are usually temporary.
How Often Should You Get Fluoride Treatments?
The frequency will depend on your individual oral health needs. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend fluoride every three, six, or 12 months, depending on your risk of tooth decay and other factors. By getting regular fluoride treatments, you can help to maintain optimal oral health and protect your teeth from cavities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dentists generally don’t use fluoride treatments for teeth whitening. However, by strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities, fluoride treatments can help maintain the natural whiteness of your teeth. Along with excellent oral health care, these treatments are a building block for a radiant smile.
No, fluoride treatments are beneficial for both children and adults. While children may be more prone to cavities, adults can also benefit from these treatments if they have a history of cavities, dry mouth, gum disease, or other factors that increase their risk of tooth decay.
While fluoride is safe when used as directed, excessive fluoride intake can lead to fluorosis, which can cause white spots or streaks on teeth. However, this is rare and typically only occurs with excessive fluoride from multiple sources, such as mouthwash and toothpaste.
Your dentist or dental hygienist can assess your oral health and determine if you would benefit from fluoride treatments. These treatments work well for those with a history of cavities, braces, dry mouth, or gum disease. However, even those with good oral hygiene can benefit from fluoride as a preventative measure.
Protect Your Smile With Fluoride
Taking proactive steps toward maintaining good oral health is essential, and one such step is getting fluoride treatments. Fluoride, a natural mineral, works wonders in strengthening tooth enamel and shielding your teeth from cavities. At Warren Family Dentistry in Warren, MI, Dr. Chirco uses this beneficial technique to help her patients achieve healthy and strong teeth.
Schedule your appointment by calling (586) 574-9500 or filling out our online contact form. We encourage patients in Fraser, Eastpointe, and Madison Heights, MI, to reach out!