Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance that is found in trace amounts in some natural water sources. Many municipal water sources have additional fluoride. People with well water might want to look for other sources of fluoride, including fluoride tablets, fluoride toothpaste or fluoride supplements.
Your tooth enamel is made up of a crystalline mineral structure. Acidic foods and the natural bacteria in your mouth can reduce the mineral strength of tooth enamel. This process is known as demineralization. Fluoride reinforces the minerals in your teeth in a process known as remineralization.
These two processes affect the enamel on your teeth at a microscopic level every single day. The stronger the enamel of your teeth is the less likely you are to develop cavities and other issues associated with tooth decay.
If you do not have an adequate amount of fluoride exposure, you might want to talk to your dentist about a fluoride treatment. This short in-office procedure can be done at the end of your routine dental checkup.
The procedure consists of pouring a concentrated fluoride gel into trays that are then inserted into the mouth for a short period of time. This helps to saturate the crystalline structures of your enamel. Afterward you will need to avoid eating or drinking for a half hour to an hour.
Your dentist might also advise an extra strength fluoride toothpaste for maintenance care in between dental checkups.
If you have questions about dental fluoride treatments please call us at [phone] to schedule an appointment.
