Fluoride Treatment

North Shore Pediatric Dentistry offers fluoride treatment for its patients.

Fluoride is a natural occurring mineral, and is found in some of the water supplies and food. Its effect on teeth is what makes it more popular; it lessens tooth decay. This fact is what most toothpaste advertisers take advantage of, including fluoride in their toothpaste ingredients. Researchers back in the day established that people who drink water with fluoride are at a much less prospect of getting cavities than those who don’t drink water with fluoride. This perhaps underscores how much important fluoride is for better dental health.

Dental carries and tooth decay are the much common dental problems today, and a variety of solutions exist to combat these problems. Brushing teeth regularly and flossing help to remove plaque. An overall good oral hygiene will keep these problems at bay. Another solution, that has been more widespread, is fluoride treatment. The most common is by brushing with fluoride toothpaste, which can be found in supermarkets all over. In areas where fluoride may not be readily available, it may be added to the water supplies.

Another method of fluoride treatment that is being offered is fluoride prescription supplements. This works like most supplements, releasing the fluoride elements through the saliva, ensuring the teeth surface get bathed in the fluoride. This is the most effective household fluoride treatment, and can be recommended by the dentist if he/ she so decides it wise to do so. This constant exposure to fluoride helps your teeth create a fortified layer of enamel, making teeth stronger in the long run.

By having fluoride treatment, you prevent the loss of minerals from tooth enamel, effectively strengthening areas that may be weakened by cavities and decay. Fluoride also prevents cavity causing bacteria from building up, as well as putting a stop to acid attacks that destroy the teeth. Fluoride treatments are more effective with good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular visits to the dentist.

Fluoride treatments at the dentist take much more concentrations than the ones found in toothpastes, and are much more effective. The treatment takes a few minutes, as the fluoride takes the form of a solution, gel, or foam. The fluoride is applied directly to the teeth by a cotton swab or brush. If the fluoride is in solution form, it is held in the mouth for a matter of minutes. After the treatment, dentists usually advise patients not to take any food or drink for an hour so that the fluoride is better absorbed.