Fluoride Treatment![]() Just How Important is Fluoride?Both plaque and oral bacteria occur naturally in the mouth. Plaque builds up on the surfaces of the teeth throughout the day. Bacteria multiply rapidly. Both produce acids that erode the enamel. Eventually, erosion leads to cavities or small pits on the surfaces of your teeth. Bacteria hide out in these cavities and continue to multiply and produce acids. Untreated, cavities continue to grow larger, weakening the structure of the affected tooth. Cavities can even grow into the inner layers of the teeth, which then leads to an infection. Fluoride works to strengthen the enamel of your teeth by aiding in remineralization and making the teeth more decay resistant. In doing so, it helps to prevent the formation of tooth decay and cavities. Fluoride can also help to reverse the early stages of decay. Risk Factors for Tooth DecayThere are certain risk factors that can increase your risk for developing tooth decay and cavities:
Fluoride TreatmentFluoride treatments are simple, fast, and completely painless. They are typically done at the end of your biannual dental cleanings, but can be done at any time. After your teeth have been thoroughly cleaned, we paint a fluoride gel onto the surfaces of your teeth. The fluoride then absorbs in through the enamel and goes to work remineralizing the teeth. The gel does not need to be washed away. It is recommended that you do not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes following the application of your fluoride treatment for maximum effectiveness. But, I Thought Fluoride was Only for ChildrenFluoride treatments are usually associated with children. While children tend to be more prone to cavities, anyone can develop them no matter what their age. Fluoride treatments provide the same benefits for adults as they do for children, helping to protect your teeth from the harmful effects of acid erosion. Fluoride is an essential element for helping to protect your teeth against acid attacks and preventing tooth decay and cavities. If you are interested in fluoride treatments for your teeth, call PDX Center for Dentistry today at (503) 546-9079. |