Fluoride Treatments
You have probably seen the word “fluoride” written on your tube of toothpaste, or bottle of mouthwash, but do you know what it is and what it does?
Fluoride is a natural mineral that improves your resistance to acid and strengthens tooth enamel. The results are long-lasting and cumulative—which means that fluoride will continue to strengthen your teeth over time!
Where Do I Get Fluoride?
Fluoride is found in water, soil, plants, rocks, and air. Most adults ingest fluoride through their drinking water or dental hygiene products. Over time, fluoride will begin appearing in your saliva and will help keep your teeth strong and healthy, 24 hours-a-day.
For those who do not have access to fluoride on a regular basis, or for children who are not receiving enough of the mineral through their diet, we provide in-office fluoride treatments. These treatments can be finished in just a few minutes and come in the form of foam, gel, or varnish.
How Does Fluoride Help Me?
When fluoride is ingested, it binds to the enamel layer of your teeth. This creates a protective barrier that will not only strengthen the teeth but will also block bacteria and acid from attacking them. Over time, this helps reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Because fluoride has so many benefits, it is especially important for children as their teeth develop and grow. Lifetime Dental Health can provide your child with a fluoride treatment to help keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong for years to come.
Is Fluoride Safe?
In general, yes, fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral and is safe for human consumption in small amounts. In fact, many cities will even add fluoride to their drinking water to make sure everyone is getting enough.
That being said, when excessive amounts of fluoride are ingested it could cause a rare condition called fluorosis. Fluorosis is not painful or dangerous in any way, though, it can permanently stain and corrode the teeth. This is especially common among children who develop a habit of swallowing dental products.
To make sure your child is not ingesting too much fluoride, simply make sure they are not swallowing any toothpaste or mouthwash.
If you have any questions or concerns about fluoride treatments, contact our Columbus office at 614-333-8679. We will be happy to answer any questions and discuss your treatment options.