Do You Need A Fluoride Treatment?
When you visit the dentist for your regular cleaning, one of the final steps in the process might be a fluoride treatment. While you might not be familiar with this type of treatment, it's actually a very important part of keeping your teeth healthy.
Here's a look at what fluoride is and why you might need a fluoride treatment at your next dental appointment.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral that's added to many products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by making the teeth more resistant to the acid that causes cavities.
How Does a Fluoride Treatment Work?
Fluoride treatments are applied directly to the teeth. The treatments usually consist of a fluoride gel or foam that's placed in trays that fit over your teeth. Often, the fluoride will have an added flavor.
The trays are left in place for a few minutes so that the fluoride has time to be absorbed by the teeth.
Who Needs a Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride treatments are generally recommended for children and adults who are at higher risk for cavities. This includes people who have dry mouth, a condition that decreases the amount of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps protect teeth from cavities, so less saliva means an increased risk for cavities.
Fluoride treatments are also generally recommended for people who have had a lot of cavities in the past. Even if you don't have cavities now, fluoride can help prevent them from forming in the future.
Is a Fluoride Treatment Safe?
Fluoride treatments are considered safe for both children and adults. In fact, they're often used in young children to help prevent cavities.
There is little risk associated with getting a fluoride treatment. If you have any concerns about whether a fluoride treatment is right for you, be sure to talk to your dentist.
Do You Need to Take Precautions After a Fluoride Treatment?
After you have a fluoride treatment, it's important to take care of your teeth so that the fluoride has time to work. For the first few hours after the treatment, avoid eating or drinking. This gives the fluoride time to be absorbed by your teeth.
What Should You Do Next?
If you think that you'd benefit from a fluoride treatment or you have questions, talk to your dentist at your next appointment. Your dentist can give you more information and help you decide if a fluoride treatment is right for you. For more information, contact a company like Josephs Family Dentistry.
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