Even though your teeth are meant to last a lifetime, there are many factors involved in keeping them healthy. Fluoride treatments can help keep your teeth strong and free from dental decay. These general dentistry treatments aid in supporting healthy tooth enamel. They also reduce the opportunities for bad bacteria to attack the teeth and gums.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. For decades, it has been used to fight cavities. When combined with the calcium and phosphate already in the tooth enamel, fluoride from water or toothpaste works to make tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to decay.
Dental Fluoride Supplement
Sugars, including those produced by refined carbohydrates in pastas, white breads, pastries and more, feed the bacteria that produce acids which eat away dental enamel. These acids strip calcium and phosphate from the enamel. Your saliva acts as a disrupting agent as it coats the teeth, adding calcium and phosphate back to the teeth.
Fluoride helps aid in this process so that the tooth enamel is better able to absorb the calcium and phosphate. Additionally, a substance called fluorapatite is created, which makes teeth stronger and resistant to the acids that can cause decay.
Children are prone to eat more than their share of sweets, and their teeth have grooves and fissures that are breeding grounds for decay-causing bacteria. Fluoride treatments are often recommended, along with sealants, to help guard these teeth against decay.
Adults who have a steady diet of refined carbohydrates may also be more prone to cavities due to the sugar load. Individuals with dry mouth or low saliva levels are also more likely to develop caries. Since the amount of saliva may not be enough to constantly wash away bad bacteria, fluoride treatments can add an additional layer of protection to the teeth.
The dental team at Engineered Smiles is dedicated to helping patients preserve their natural teeth and keep smiles looking good. Find out more about our fluoride treatments and how you can preserve your beautiful smile by making an appointment with us. Contact Engineered Smiles today to schedule your exam, and keep your smile bright and healthy.
