Fluoride is a natural mineral and one of the top treatments Fort Lauderdale dentist, Dr. Natalia Benda- Celenski uses at our practice. Research has shown that fluoride both reduces the risk of cavities in children and adults as well as helps repair the early effects of tooth decay. These days, it’s hard to find toothpastes and mouthwashes that don’t include fluoride is a main ingredient due to its protective and restorative properties. Fluoride is even added to drinking water to prevent tooth deterioration.
Fluoride penetrates the enamel on our teeth, replenishing lost calcium and phosphorous that may wear down over time or due to certain foods and acidic beverages, like coffee, tea, and soda or, and strengthening teeth from within. Each day, vital minerals are lost from tooth enamel through a process known as demineralization. Fluoride, calcium, and phosphorus redeposit minerals to the enamel via the process of remineralization.
While fluoride is present in several foods and water, this amount is often insufficient to fully replenish lost minerals. However, with regular use of fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes, diminished tooth enamel starts to rebuild, allowing teeth to become increasingly stronger and resistant to bacteria, plaque, sugar, and acidic foods.
At Pearl White Dentistry, fluoride treatments are administered during routine checkups and cleanings for adults. Professional-grade fluoride is much more concentrated than what is found in over-the-counter toothpastes and mouth washes, providing you teeth with an extra layer of protection against plaque and other enamel-deteriorating substances.
Professional fluoride treatments take only a few minutes, but provide long-lasting defense for tooth enamel. During your checkup, we’ll apply a fluoride gel or varnish to your teeth using a cotton swab. After the treatment, we ask that you refrain from eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes to allow your teeth to absorb the fluoride effectively. Typically, fluoride treatments are repeated every six to twelve months, but in some cases – especially with individuals who are prone to cavities – we may recommend more frequent applications.
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is important at any age. Fluoride plays a vital role in the development of children’s teeth, both primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth. Young children are encouraged to drink fluoridated water regularly. In fact, children who drink fluoridated water have up to two-thirds fewer cavities.
Topical fluoride can be safely administered to children in small amounts as soon as their first tooth erupt and has been shown to not only drastically reduce the risk of cavities, but strengthen teeth in general as they develop. Our children’s fluoride treatments are similar to those of adults. However, since children only need a minimal amount of fluoride, we apply a pea-sized amount to their teeth using a cotton swab.
Regular fluoride treatments have been proven to replenish tooth enamel, lowering the risk of cavities and tooth decay in both children and adults. To schedule a fluoride treatment with Dr. Natalia, give us a call at (954) 491-8812 or contact us online.
