Benefits of Fluoride Treatment - Pine Street Dental

Teeth deteriorate over time. Years of consuming stain-causing foods and drinks can lead to early tooth decay if patients fail to take the proper precautions to protect their teeth. Fluoride treatments assists in the remineralization of your enamel, in turn promoting a good, healthy smile. 

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in food and water. Fluoride is used to assist the natural enamel growth. When applied properly, fluoride can heavily promote healthy teeth. 

How does fluoride affect the tooth?

Over time, minerals from the tooth’s enamel are lost through processes called demineralization and normal wear and tear.

Demineralization occurs when bacteria in the plaque on your teeth feed on sugar and other carbohydrates left in your mouth, producing acids that dissolve the tooth enamel. Normally, the enamel balances itself through the process of remineralization, depositing necessary minerals, such as fluoride, calcium, and phosphate, into the enamel. The process of fluoridation promotes this natural growth, in turn helping to protect teeth from cavities.

Fluoride applied directly to the teeth reinforce the natural enamel. Fluoride products such as toothpaste and mouth rinse can be directly applied to teeth. Professional fluoride treatments are also available and are a good solution for those with sensitive teeth. Generally, gel, foam, or varnish is applied to the teeth during this treatment. Often times, the fluoride treatments in dental offices contain stronger ingredients when opposed to over-the-counter applications. Fluoride treatments can also be prescribed to patients by dentist.

Excessive ingestion of fluoride can be dangerous, so be careful not to consume too much fluoride. Fluoride toxicity levels vary based on weight. Be sure not to swallow toothpaste when brushing. Parents should monitor children using fluoride. Also, before beginning your own fluoride treatment at home, be sure to discuss your plans with your dentist.

Contact Pine Street Dental in Sandpoint, ID for more information on the benefits of fluoride or make an appointment with us for professional fluoride treatment or other general dental services.

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