Fluoride Treatment Your teeth, specifically the enamel of your teeth, are the hardest substances in your body. The enamel protects the interior of your teeth from harm. One of the major elements in enamel is fluoride. The foods you eat and the beverages you drink cause fluoride loss, as does the acids produced by plaque and bacteria. When too much is lost, it can increase your risk of developing cavities. Fortunately, lost fluoride can be replenished. For some people, the fluoride found in food treated water, and fluoridated oral care products are enough to restore lost enamel. At Elmwood Dental, we can provide further help to adults and children by protecting tooth enamel with fluoride treatments.The Importance of FluorideBoth plaque and oral bacteria occur naturally in your mouth. They both produce acids that erode the enamel of your teeth. Throughout the course of the day, plaque continues to build on your teeth and bacteria multiply. Good oral hygiene can help to keep them at bay. An overabundance, however, even just on one certain area of your teeth, can lead to trouble. When enamel erodes, it causes small pits, or cavities, to form on your teeth. Bacteria then take up residence in these pits and continue their destruction. Cavities continue to grow as more and more enamel is lost. Eventually, the cavities can grow into the inner layer of your teeth, which can then lead to serious, and painful, infections. Fluoride is an essential element that helps to strengthen your enamel. It protects from the acid attacks of plaque and bacteria. It can even reverse the early stages of tooth decay. What Can Increase Your Risk for Tooth Decay and Cavities?There are some people who are at a greater risk for tooth decay, and therefore cavities. Fluoride treatments may be beneficial if:
Aren’t Fluoride Treatments for Kids?Fluoride treatments are popular for young kids, who are often more at risk for developing cavities. Fluoride can be helpful for both baby teeth and developing adult teeth. It can also be beneficial for fully developed adult teeth, no matter what your age. Fluoride is not just important for developing teeth. It is just as important for protecting your teeth from acid erosion. How Fluoride Treatments WorkFluoride treatment is a simple, straightforward procedure that is done during your regular dental cleanings. It is completely painless and takes just a few minutes to complete. We apply a fluoride gel to the surfaces of your teeth. The fluoride is absorbed into the enamel and goes to work immediately. To ensure the best results, it is important that you avoid eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes. If your teeth are not getting the fluoride they need to stay healthy; fluoride treatments may be able to help. For more information, contact Elmwood Dental at (833) 432-1457 today. |
Contact Information1132 New Britain Ave West Hartford, CT 06110-2421 (833) 432-1457 frontdesk@elmwooddentalllc.com Follow UsClick here to schedule your cleaning |
