How Does Fluoride Treatments Benefit Your Teeth?

Fluoride is considered to be a natural defense against tooth cavities. It is a naturally occurring mineral found in water sources and some foods. Its contribution to oral health was realized in the 1930s. This was after researchers found out that people that have lived drinking naturally fluoridated water had up to two thirds less cavities than people without access fluoridated water. Since then, there has been effort to add fluoride in drinking water and in oral products to support healthy tooth enamel and keep off bacteria that could harm the teeth and gums in any way. Fluoride treatments in Calgary are also offered as part of ensuring both adults and children get the right amounts of this essential mineral.

How Does Fluoride Protect Teeth?

Fluoride works in a number of ways to protect the teeth. It is especially very helpful for those at high risk of developing cavities. One of the ways in which it works is by strengthening the teeth’s enamel. Fluoride is absorbed into the enamel and helps with its repair by replenishing lost essential minerals like calcium and phosphorous. This is achieved through a process called remineralization. Also, when fluoride is present, it prevents the dissolution of existing minerals through the process of demineralization. Demineralization occurs when there is build-up of plaque and destructive bacteria in the mouth that gets into contact with the enamel and weakens it by leaching away vital minerals.

The other way in which fluoride protects the teeth is by working against the acid produced by plaque. It blocks the harmful enzymes present in plaque from, producing harmful and destructive acid that weakens the tooth’s enamel.

Some studies further indicate that fluoride plays a significant role in healthy development of children’s teeth. it was observed that children that took the suggested amount of fluoride developed smaller grooves/fissures compared to children lacking fluoride in their diet. The shallow fissures make it difficult for food particles to be trapped and also allow for easier cleaning, which is vital in ensuring an overall healthy mouth.

How Much Fluoride Do You Need?

The amount of fluoride required by an individual depends on their age, gender and whether they have access to fluoridated drinking water or not. Generally, females above the age of 14 need to consume 3mg daily while males of the same age need 4mg a day. Children between 4 and 13 years need 2mg daily while younger kids shouldn’t take more than 0.5mg.

To ensure that you are getting the recommended amounts of fluoride, drinking fluoridated water, use a fluoride toothpaste and introduce fluoride rich foods into your diet. Regular dental check-ups are also important because not only will you be checked for any sign of illness, but you’ll also receive professional cleaning and fluoride treatment.

What Happens During Professional Dental Treatments?

My Dental Clinic provides gentle and professional fluoride treatments that come in form of highly concentrated gel, foam, varnish or rinses. The treatment provides a higher dose of fluoride that what you would find in drinking water or toothpaste. The treatment takes a short time and is painless. You will only have to wait 30 minutes after the treatment and you can resume to eat and drink without trouble.

Fluoride treatments near you in Calgary, AB is offered as preventive measure against tooth decay. In some cases,it is also used to reverse the effects of early stages of tooth decay. The procedure is performed by a hygienist or a qualified dentist. The technique used will vary depending on the form of the fluoride concentrate. Your teeth will have to be cleaned first and any plaque present will be removed before fluoride treatment is offered.

If you are still considering getting Fluoride Treatment from dentist near you in Calgary, AB, it will be assuring to know that it is safe, painless and effective at strengthening the tooth’s enamel. The cost is definitely worth it as you will be protecting your smile and at the same time saving time and money that would otherwise be used in treating tooth decay and cavities.