Fluoride is a natural mineral that is found in water and many foods. You may be familiar with it as an ingredient in your toothpaste. Fluoride can strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay.
What is a Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride treatments given at Your Dental Office in Toronto, or Etobicoke, are stronger than the fluoride you find in water or toothpaste. These treatments are administered towards the end of your appointment. They only take a few minutes to complete.
Fluoride treatments come in a solution, gel, foam or varnish. Depending on the type you receive, it will be administered via a mouthwash, swab, tray or brush. You typically keep the fluoride in your mouth for a few minutes while it absorbs into your teeth. For many types of fluoride treatments, you’re asked to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes following the application.
What Does Fluoride Do?
The bacteria in your mouth produce acid that eats away at the enamel on your teeth. This is called demineralization. As a result, your teeth are more prone to tooth decay. When applied to teeth, fluoride gets deposited into the enamel, making your teeth more resistant to decay. This is called remineralization.
Should I Use Fluoride After a Dental Cleaning?
Fluoride is essential in keeping your teeth strong and resistant against decay. You should opt to have the fluoride treatment done after you get a dental cleaning. While you can get fluoride from water and toothpaste, these sources aren’t as strong as the treatment you will get at the dentist's office. Following your cleaning, you should use fluoride toothpaste every day to continue to fortify your enamel.
What are the Benefits of Fluoride?
While fluoride can’t reduce tooth decay if you already have it, it can prevent future decay and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. With stronger enamel, your teeth are less likely to develop cavities. Fluoride treatments are much more affordable than having cavities filled.
There are benefits in giving children fluoride as well. Children who are given fluoride treatments when they are young are less likely to develop cavities compared to those who do not receive treatments.
Are you looking for a dental office in Toronto, or Etobicoke, to have your fluoride treatment done? Visit Your Dental Office for more information on services and treatments. Contact us today to book an appointment!