Fluoride Treatment- When it is important to go for it?
Fluoride is a natural mineral that is essential for oral health because it makes the teeth stronger and prevents cavities. This also protects the tooth enamel and fight against the bacteria harmful for teeth and gums. Minerals are added and lost from tooth enamel through two processes.
- Demineralization: When minerals are lost from tooth enamel and lead to the formation of acid from plaque and sugar in the mouth, attacks tooth enamel.
- Remineralization: Few minerals consumed from the foods and water, such as fluoride, calcium, and phosphate redeposit on the enamel.
If the demineralization increases and remineralization are not enough to repair the enamel layer leads to tooth decay. Therefore, fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay by making teeth resistant to acid attacks. It helps in speeding remineralization and prevents acid production, which has already formed in the teeth of children and adults.
How is fluoride available?
Fluoride is found in foods and water. You can apply it directly with the use of fluoridated toothpaste and mouth rinses. Mouth rinses can be availed from over-the-counter, which contains fluoride in a lower amount. A doctor’s prescription is required for stronger concentrations.
For fluoride treatment, you can go to the dentist in Berkeley, CA. They will apply fluoride to the teeth in the form of gel, foam, or varnish. These contain higher concentrations of fluoride as compared to toothpaste and mouth rinses. The gel is either painted or applied via mouthguard; fluoride varnish is also painted on the teeth in CA, and foam is put into a mouthguard.
You can also get fluoride supplements in the form of liquids and tablets prescribed by the dentist or paediatrician.
When is it important to take fluoride?
Fluoride treatment is important for kids in CA and children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years. During this time, primary and permanent teeth erupt. Therefore, fluoride fights against the decay and strengthens developing teeth.
People with certain conditions could be at risk of tooth decay, and fluoride treatment provides a lot of benefits.
- Dry mouth
This is also known as Xerostomia, which is caused due to some kind of diseases, medications, and head and neck radiation treatment that make it more prone to tooth decay. The food particles do not wash away due to a lack of saliva and neutralize the acid.
- Periodontitis
It is also called gum disease, which makes teeth and tooth roots vulnerable to bacteria. This leads to tooth decay and gingivitis.
- Frequent cavities
Fluoride treatment is considered best for adults in CA who had or has cavities once a year or every few months.
- Crowns, bridges or braces
Fluoride treatment can increase the risk of decay because the crown meets the underlying structure or around the brackets.
Risks of using fluoride
Fluoride is safe and effective if used as directed. Intake of high doses can be harmful. Therefore, the dosage is based on an individual’s weight. Parents should guide their children for fluoride products and keep away from children below the age of 6 years.
Excessive use of fluoride can cause damage to tooth enamel. There could be the development of white specks or streaks, which are not much noticeable. These are known as fluorosis, which occurs in children below six years. It cannot be removed with normal hygiene. The dentist can lighten or remove with bleaches or strength-abrasives.
Consider a few things when using fluoride-
- Keep away fluoride supplements from children.
- Avoid flavored toothpaste.
- Use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste for children.
Fluoride level gets affected by the home water treatment system
The amount of fluoride received from drinking water depends on the type of home water system. The steam distillation system removes fluoride completely from the water. Use water softeners and charcoal/carbon filters that do not remove fluoride.
Get the water tested to ensure your family is getting an adequate amount of fluoride.
Get the tap water tested
Ask the local dentist or contact local and state health departments to know how much fluoride is present in the tap water.
Fluoride is very important for teeth. It prevents cavities and harmful bacteria and makes oral health stronger.