Some patients ask us if fluoride is safe and effective for promoting dental health.
The answer to both questions is yes. To better understand why we may recommend a fluoride treatment to a patient, it helps to understand what fluoride does for your teeth.
How Does Fluoride Help Keep Your Teeth Healthy?
The enamel layer of your teeth can gain or lose minerals through the process called demineralization.
When your teeth come into contact with acids, the enamel loses minerals. When you brush your teeth or eat foods high in minerals like calcium and phosphate, you help replenish those lost minerals.
Too much mineral loss will lead to tooth decay. That's where fluoride comes in — when it is applied to your teeth, the enamel takes it in and uses it to strengthen itself.
Is Dentist Fluoride Treatment Necessary?
Fluoride is an essential part of keeping your teeth healthy. For over seventy years, fluoride has been added to tap water to reduce tooth decay in many municipalities all over America and has been incredibly successful. Fluoride is also often found in toothpaste.
Flouride can:
- Delay cavity growth
- Help prevent the formation of new cavities
- Prolong tooth life
- Save money on dentist bills
- Fight off tooth pain
- Help with the treatment of gum disease
Patients who have teeth with weakened enamel or are fighting tooth decay may consider a professional fluoride treatment to help promote oral health.
Patients with conditions like gum disease can benefit from fluoride treatment as it deters acid and bacteria buildup.
Dental Fluoride Treatment In Bridgeton, MO
Bridgeton, MO's local dental practice of Dr. Kevin Burgdorf, DDS, provides quality preventative dentistry, including teeth cleanings and fluoride treatment. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with our dentist, contact us today at (314) 291-9000.