Fluoride Treatment
 Your teeth contain a naturally occurring element known as fluoride. Fluoride provides strength to your enamel, protecting them from the harmful effects of acid. Every day, fluoride is lost to the acids from plaque and bacteria, as well as the acids found in certain foods and drinks. Fluoride is also replaced daily. This element can be found in treated tap water and oral care products. It can even be found in trace amounts in certain foods. While many people get the fluoride, they need in their daily lives, some people do not. Without sufficient fluoride, your teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay and cavities. At PDX Center for Dentistry, we can help to restore lost fluoride with fluoride treatments.
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 Decay
There are certain risk factors that can increase your risk for developing tooth decay and cavities:
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Poor oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing, along with regular dental visits, are essential for removing plaque and bacteria buildup from your teeth, and neutralizing acids. Skipping out on any part of your oral hygiene routine can quickly lead to decay.
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Deep grooves in the teeth. Deep grooves are often harder to access with a toothbrush, providing the perfect hiding space for bacteria.
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Certain lifestyle habits. Smoking and drinking can increase your risk for decay.
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Gum recession. Gum recession exposes more surface area of the teeth.
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The areas near dental restorations, such as veneers, crowns and bridges, can be more difficult to clean thoroughly.
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Dry mouth. Dry mouth, often caused by alcohol and certain medications, provides the perfect environment to support bacterial growth. |
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride 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 Children
Fluoride 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) 928-5903. |
