WHAT IS FLUORIDE?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is known for its active protective properties against early signs of tooth decay. It is because of this that for more than 70 years, a majority of the tap water supplied in America contained minute traces of fluoride.
Often detected in forms like sodium fluoride and stannous fluoride, these components are commonly incorporated in most dental products. This mineral helps inhibit the formation of cavities and strengthens the teeth in adults and children alike, thereby earning it the nickname, “nature’s cavity fighter”.
HOW DOES FLUORIDE WORK?
When bacteria in plaque and tartar get accumulated on the teeth surfaces, the enamel of the tooth is weakened and becomes susceptible to invasion by these microbes. In a process called demineralization, the tooth surface loses a portion of its crystals making the tooth a prime target for bacteria to feed on its minerals and initiate tooth decay.
At Prime Dentistry, we understand that fluoride coats the tooth enamel making it more resistant to the destructive effects of acid and bacteria attacks. It also helps replenish the lost minerals quicker by accelerating the process of remineralization. This ensures that your teeth are protected from tooth decay and cavities.
HOW CAN YOU GET ENOUGH FLUORIDE?
There are two major ways by which fluoride can be delivered to your teeth: topically and systemically. Topical fluoride applications involve direct coating of the teeth’ surfaces with fluoride in toothpaste, gels, or mouthwashes.
Professional fluoride applications are the most reliable procedures for fluoride delivery. Visiting our dental office in Philadelphia for professional fluoride applications will give you a better chance at expelling tooth decay.
On the other hand, fluoride can also be supplied systematically by means of oral ingestion. This includes fluoridation by water, salt, and even milk.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE TREATMENT?
Fluoride treatments are typically professionally done by an experienced dentist or hygienist like our team at Prime Dentistry. It involves coating your teeth with a high concentration of fluoride for a couple of minutes. The fluoride might come in different forms like foams, gels, or even varnishes.
After your treatment is complete, you’ll be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes in order to give the teeth surfaces adequate time to absorb the fluoride and get on with the repair of decay areas. Depending on the status of your oral health, you will be recommended fluoride treatments every six to twelve months at Prime Dentistry in Philadelphia.
Keep your teeth fit as a fiddle by ensuring that you also undergo regular fluoride applications, especially if you exhibit signs of high-cavity risk. Contact our expert dental team at Prime Dentistry to book an appointment.
