Fluoride Treatments Protect Teeth From Decay

Fluoride treatments have been used for decades to help protect dental patients’ teeth from decay. Fluoride is a compound of the natural element fluorine, which is found throughout the earth in water, soil, air, and food. It has long been known as beneficial because it helps prevent cavities in children and adults by making the tooth enamel more resistant to the harmful effects of plaque. Plaque is the sticky, white substance that builds up on your teeth each day, and it is made up of millions of acid producing bacteria. The acids from these bacteria eat away at the tooth enamel, causing cavities and tooth decay. While flossing and brushing are essential to removing plaque buildup on a daily basis, many children and adults are more prone to developing cavities and will benefit from fluoride treatments.

As children’s teeth erupt in the mouth, they are much more vulnerable to developing cavities and dental caries because they are “softer.” Children’s teeth do not reach full maturity and strength for a few months after their eruption, making them extremely vulnerable to dental issues. Adults who do not practice good oral hygiene at home or who are more susceptible to decay are also more vulnerable to dental issues. In-office fluoride treatments are specifically used to protect the oral health of patients of all ages.

Indicators that you or your child would benefit from fluoride treatments include:

• active orthodontic treatment
• drug or alcohol use
• dry mouth
• eating disorder
• genetic predisposition
• gum recession
• irregular dental visits
• poor diet
• poor oral hygiene
• the use of certain medications
• undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Dr. Mitul Patel and the entire dental team at Family & Cosmetic Dental Care in Johns Creek are dedicated to the oral health of our patients. Fluoride treatments have been used effectively to help millions of people protect their teeth. This painless and quick treatment is done in-office, and its benefits will last for approximately a year at a time. If you would like to learn more about how fluoride treatments can benefit you and/or your family members, contact us today.
Posted by Mitul Patel DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dental Care
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