Fluoride Treatment
Russellville, AL
 We here at Singing River Dentistry strongly believe that brushing and flossing are important aspects of everyday dental care and maintenance. Did you know there is another more discreet tool aiding your oral health in your everyday routine? Fluoride, found in the water we drink, and most toothpaste works hard to build up teeth to help them better fight against bacteria and plaque.
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What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, plants, and rocks. It also naturally occurs in our teeth and bones. Specifically, fluoride is found in the tooth enamel. The tooth enamel acts as the armor, protecting your teeth from bacteria. However, as teeth work hard to chew and break down foods, our naturally occurring fluoride gets lost. That is why it is important to make sure you are adding fluoride to your teeth through your toothpaste and fluoride treatments at the dentist.
You can find fluoride in many oral health products like mouthwash. In the U.S., most places add a small dose of fluoride into the water, just to give your teeth that extra boost. Fluoride has many properties that dentists have long known to improve teeth. While your teeth experience what is called “demineralization” through being exposed to bacteria in food, exposure to fluoride causes remineralization. Remineralization builds back up your tooth enamel.
If you are especially prone to cavities, please ask us about good fluoride treatment. Those who smoke, use drugs or alcohol heavily, eat a lot of junk food, or neglect oral health, in general, are at a much higher risk for cavities. There are several at-home fluoride treatments to help you get extra mineralization in between appointments. Still, too much fluoride can cause fluorosis, so be sure to talk to us directly about what a good intake of fluoride is for you.
In-Office Fluoride Treatment
Although you probably are getting fluoride through your toothpaste or mouthwash at home, it is still important to receive regular fluoride treatments during your dental appointments. A professional fluoride treatment ensures your teeth directly receive an appropriate amount of fluoride to help with remineralization.
In a professional fluoride treatment, we apply a highly concentrated fluoride rinse directly onto your teeth. It only takes a swab or brush so there is no pain or anesthesia needed. The entire procedure only takes a few minutes and fits perfectly into a regular dental cleaning. The only difference is it will be imperative you avoid food or drinks for thirty minutes after your fluoride treatment to allow the fluoride to set onto your teeth.
Final Thoughts
Fluoride does not actually remove bacteria; instead, it merely strengthens your teeth to better fight against harmful bacteria. While a fluoridated toothpaste, rinses, and regular fluoride treatments from the dentist are important, fluoride is not a replacement for teeth brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings.
Contact Us Today!
Be sure to take care of all parts of your oral health care in order to avoid cavities and maintain a beautiful smile. If you have more questions about fluoride or cavities, please contact us here at Singing River Dentistry at 256-460-4191 today.
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