What is fluoride and why is it important for dental health?

Fluoride is a mineral naturally present in various foods and water supplies. It is important because it strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay. Its benefits have been known for over 50 years and are supported by numerous health organizations.

How does topical fluoride work to prevent tooth decay?

Topical fluoride strengthens the teeth that have already erupted by seeping into the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It is typically obtained through fluoride-containing dental products like toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels. Dentists recommend professional fluoride applications for children twice a year during dental check-ups.

What is systemic fluoride and how does it help in dental health?

Systemic fluoride strengthens both the teeth that have erupted and those developing under the gums. It is primarily obtained from food and community water supplies but can also be prescribed as supplements in the form of drops or gels. It is especially useful for infants and children, though the amounts ingested must be monitored to avoid fluorosis.

What is fluorosis, and how does it occur?

Fluorosis is a condition that causes white spots to appear on the teeth. It occurs when too much fluoride is consumed while teeth are still developing under the gums. This is why it’s important to monitor fluoride intake, especially in children.

Who might need additional fluoride treatments?

Additional fluoride treatments may be recommended for people with deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of their teeth, exposed and sensitive root surfaces, poor oral hygiene habits, frequent sugar intake, inadequate fluoride exposure, or low saliva flow due to medical conditions or treatments. It may also be prescribed for those with a recent history of dental decay.

Can fluoride alone prevent tooth decay?

No, fluoride alone cannot prevent tooth decay. While it helps strengthen teeth, it is essential to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing at least twice a day, flossing regularly, eating balanced meals, reducing sugary snacks, and visiting your dentist regularly.

How can a dentist help with fluoride treatments?

Dentists and dental hygienists may recommend professional fluoride treatments during check-ups, particularly for children. They may also advise additional fluoride products, such as fluoride gels or rinses, based on individual needs to prevent tooth decay.

What are some risks of inadequate fluoride exposure?

Inadequate fluoride exposure can lead to a higher risk of tooth decay, especially in individuals with poor oral hygiene, frequent sugar intake, or those who don't have sufficient fluoride in their water supply. Fluoride treatments can help mitigate these risks.

Fluoride Treatment In Sterling, VA

Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.

Fluoride works in two ways:

Topical fluoride

strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay. We gain topical fluoride by using fluoride containing dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels. Dentists and dental hygienists generally recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.

Systemic fluoride

strengthens the teeth that have erupted as well as those that are developing under the gums. We gain systemic fluoride from most foods and our community water supplies. It is also available as a supplement in drop or gel form and can be prescribed by your dentist or physician. Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years. It is very important to monitor the amounts of fluoride a child ingests. If too much fluoride is consumed while the teeth are developing, a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) may result.

Although most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. Your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons:

Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
Exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
Fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake.
Inadequate exposure to fluorides.
Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments or medications.
Recent history of dental decay.

Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay! It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.

DENTAL FINANCING OPTIONS AT LAKE CENTER DENTAL

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Fluoride Treatment In Sterling, VA

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Fluoride Treatment In Sterling, VA

Topical fluoride

Systemic fluoride

DENTAL FINANCING OPTIONS AT LAKE CENTER DENTAL

CASH

CHECK

DEBIT AND CREDIT

FSA

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