What Is Fluoride Anyways?

Floride Defined

As stated by the CDC, Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally and is released from rocks into the soil, water, and air. Almost all water contains some fluoride, but usually not enough to prevent tooth decay. So why is fluoride considered important to your dental health and why are some people hesitant of it? Read on to find out!

The Benefits Of Fluoride

While fluoride has many health benefits, some of the biggest ones to note are:

  1. Prevention of tooth decay.
  2. Fewer cavities.
  3. A decrease in the need for tooth fillings and extractions.
  4. Decreased pain due to tooth decay.

Fluoride is safe for all ages and is a strong defense against tooth decay that can cause pain and suffering in the long run. Making sure that fluoride is a regular part of your dental health is important to ensure a happy and healthy smile.

How Often Should You Use Fluoride?

Fluoride can be present in your local water supply and is determined on a state and local level if it’s added. You can also acquire fluoride in the everyday items you ingest such as processed beverages which account for 75% of a person’s intake in the United States and most toothpaste

When you don’t get the proper amount of fluoride regularly, your teeth begin the demineralizing process and the fluoride in your teeth lowers to poor levels that require professional intervention to take place. That’s where fluoride treatments from your dentist come in! 

We will evaluate your teeth to determine if they are losing more fluoride than not and conclude if you are in need of a fluoride treatment. If you are eligible, you will undergo a thorough cleaning and rinse. Once that is completed, fluoride gel/varnish will be applied to your teeth one by one using a small brush. The process is painless and quick. Once completed, you are requested to not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to ensure the fluoride has been absorbed and dried on your teeth. 

The Final Conclusion On Fluoride

Fluoride is important for many reasons and plays a large part in good dental health. If you are feeling any discomfort in your teeth, reach out today to schedule a consultation to see if fluoride treatment is right for you!