Category: fluoride treatment

Today, dental fluoride treatments aren’t just for kids. Adults with cavity-prone teeth can enjoy a painless way to fight cavities while reducing the need for painful procedures.

Why are fluoride treatments so widely used?

Fluoride seeps into tooth enamel and draws the calcium and phosphate that is naturally present in saliva. These minerals enhance the healing process making teeth more resistant to decay. In addition, fluoride works to strength teeth prior to the eruption, this is why children are given scheduled treatments.

How do fluoride treatments protect against bad bacteria?

Fluoridetreatments work to attack harmful acid producing bacteria that is present in the mouth. Research has shown that is hinders the ability of bacteria to adhere to the teeth. Although filling cavities will repair the hole, it doesn’t address the problem with bad bacteria.

How long does it take to apply a fluoride treatment?

During a regular dental visit, the fluoride treatment only takes about a minute to administer. This preventative approach is just as effective for adults as it is for children. Some adult patients are given an additional prescription for a concentrated fluoride for night use.

What factors determine the best candidates for fluoride treatments for adults?

It is becoming increasingly popular for dentists to weigh an adult patient’s risk for developing cavities and if necessary, make fluoride treatments a part of that person’s individual treatment plan. Factors to be considered are the patient’s history of dental caries, oral bacteria levels, medications and saliva flow.

Can fluoride treatments result in no cavities?

Traditional dentistry teaches the best way to deal with a cavity is to drill a hole in it. This is still good general practice. But, routine fluoride treatments for adults along with good oral hygiene can mean no cavities. By neglecting to treat the underlying disease of bad bacteria and dental caries, the cavity-prone adult patient will simply continue to need more fillings.

Do insurance companies typically cover the cost of fluoride treatments for adults?

When it comes to fluoride treatments for adults there is one small hurdle, the cost. Insurance companies are willing to pay for routine treatments for children, but many are reluctant to do so for adults. Higher end plans may cover up to two annual fluoride treatments. However, the investment may be worth saving your teeth. The price of a fluoride treatment is much less than that of a filling.

Fluoride is an important mineral for good oral health. It helps prevent cavities by boosting the rate of remineralization and slowing down enamel erosion. The new mineral crystals that form on the tooth crown are larger, denser and better equipped to shield against mouth acid. Plaque breaks down the outer enamel and can seep down into the rods of a tooth, causing internal damage. This demineralization can lead to weakened areas that will eventually form a cavity. Fluoride treatment can help preserve mouth health and ward off tooth decay. Common sources of fluoride include are fluoridated tap water, topical fluoride treatments, toothpaste, and mouthwashes.

Fluoride Toothpaste

A good fluoride toothpaste will help strengthen teeth and prevent cavities from forming in adults and children. It reinforces weak areas and exposed roots, and stops early decay in its tracks. To attain the full benefit, brush at least twice daily with an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste. Supervise young children when it is time to brush, and remember that kids under six should only use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste.

Water with Fluoride

Fortified tap water is a simple, cost-effective way to protect a community from the ravages of tooth decay.

• If you don’t know if your drinking water contains fluoride, or if you are curious about the exact how much is in your water system, ask your dentist, public works dept. or have your water tested. If not, your dentist may suggest professional fluoride treatments.
• If you have confirmed that your tap water is not fluoridated, you and your loved ones may be given drops or tablets from your dentist for added fluoride protection.
• Treated drinking water is the best substitute for soda and sugary fruit drinks as it protects your oral health and there is no harmful exposure to sugar and corrosive acids.
• Bottled water is better than soft drinks, but it may not contain fluoride.

Fluoride Mouth Rinse

Many mouthwash varieties now have added fluoride. Add a swish with a fluoride rinse to your daily dental care routine for some extra cavity-fighting protection.