The Importance of Fluoride Treatment for Healthy Gums and Teeth
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral often used to control cavities and strengthen one’s teeth. The mineral is a major “ingredient” for most toothpaste companies. Also, tap water in the US is often fluoridated.
However, the amount in tap water and toothpaste is not always enough to prevent cavities, especially among children who are more prone to cavities. In this blog, we will discuss the treatment in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Why Should You Get a Fluoride Treatment?
Cavities affect everyone, but there are some people at higher risk than most. If you are among them, you should get the treatment more frequently. Some of the factors increasing the risk of cavities include:
Dry Mouth
There are several things that can cause a dry mouth, and the most common one is medications. For instance, if you are taking heart disease drugs, you are at a higher risk of cavities. When you don’t have enough saliva in your mouth, your digestion is affected. Also, it increases the risk of bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.
Gum Disease
A fluoride treatment will not necessarily treat the disease, but it can help prevent it. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. You should protect yourself from it as much as possible.
History of Cavities
If you have been treated for cavities several times, you are at a higher risk of developing more cavities. That’s why you need the fluoride treatment more than others. The treatment will protect your teeth from cavities and strengthen them for better functionality.
Cost of Treatment
Fluoride treatment is one of the most affordable procedures in a dental clinic. In fact, most insurance providers cover the cost for anyone below the age of 18. However, if you don’t have an insurance cover or you are older than 18, the out-of-pocket cost is quite affordable too. Typically, it will not cost you more than 30 dollars. Talk to your insurance provider to confirm if they will cover the cost.
The Importance of Fluoride Treatment
The treatment is quite important to people of all ages. Here is why:
It Makes You Less Vulnerable to Cavity-Causing Bacteria
Dental decay occurs when food particles meet with bacteria in our mouths and form acids. These acids attack the enamel, causing cavities. Fluoride makes a patient’s teeth less susceptible to bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities.
Attacks Bacteria
Fluoride has proved effective in attacking cavity-causing bacteria, slowing their reaction, and sometimes reversing it.
Improves Usage of Other Minerals in Your Body
People who use fluoride have shown improved usage of other important minerals such as calcium and phosphate. Both minerals are important in strengthening your teeth and repairing the enamel.
Improves Your Overall Health
If you have optimal oral health, your overall health will improve too. Our mouths are the gate to everything we eat and drink. If it is not healthy, the effect is likely to spread to other parts of the body. One step to achieving optimal oral health is getting a fluoride treatment.
Reduces Your Need to Visit the Dentist
Toothaches and cavities are the most common dental problems. They are both caused by bacteria that can be slowed down by fluoride. Therefore, getting the treatment means you will have fewer teeth problems, and hence the reduced need to visit the dentist. However, it is still vital to visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and exams.
How Much Fluoride Is Enough?
Typically, most people get the treatment every 12 months, but it can be sooner if you engage in behaviors that increase your risk for cavities. These behaviors include:
- Smoking and using tobacco products
- Failure to maintain proper oral hygiene
- Taking sugary foods and drinks in excess
- Taking alcohol in excess
- You don’t visit the dentist regularly.
That said, you should not take fluoride in excess, thinking it will make up for poor oral hygiene behaviors. Taking it in excess can cause allergic reactions, tooth discoloration, and nausea. Always take it as directed by the dentist. Kids below three years should take about 1.5 mg daily, while teens and adults should take about 4mg daily for the recommended time.
Fanwood Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
We offer high-quality preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental services. Our clinic is family-friendly, and we are always ready to help. Book an appointment now.