Curious about whether fluoride is important to your oral health? Read on to learn more about how fluoride is used in general dentistry. Fluoride plays an important role in the prevention of cavities, and it can be a safe component of one's daily oral care routine.
Fluoride can seem intimidating when first hearing about it, but it is actually a naturally occurring mineral. In fact, many cities add fluoride into the public drinking water due to the safety of the mineral and the oral health benefits it provides. The following is an overview of how general dentistry can utilize fluoride and the benefits it can offer:
The primary purpose of fluoride in general dentistry is to strengthen the bonds of teeth enamel. This makes teeth more resistant to attacks from acids in the mouth, which can result when bacteria and food compounds (such as sugar) combine. Fluoride is most often used for preventive purposes. However, if the enamel is weakened, then fluoride may be prescribed to strengthen and remineralize the enamel.
Another reason dentists are so fond of fluoride use is that it is easy and safe for people to implement into their daily oral care routine. It can be added to antibacterial mouthwash that is used daily or in toothpaste. As mentioned, even some public water drinking supplies contain fluoride.
Individuals that have healthy teeth can get the recommended amount of fluoride each day by simply choosing a fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash. However, patients that have weakened enamel and are more vulnerable to tooth decay if not promptly treated may need additional fluoride each day, in which case the general dentist may provide a special fluoride treatment to use once or twice per day.
Fluoride is used either to prevent weakened enamel or strengthen enamel to prevent cavities. However, it cannot treat cavities, which occur when the enamel wears away and tiny holes form on teeth. In this case, the patient may need a dental filling or root canal therapy to restore the appearance and health of the tooth.
Fluoride is safe for most people to use daily as long as it is in the appropriate amounts. People that have worn-down or damaged enamel caused by bacterial attacks may be ideal candidates for fluoride mouthwash that is prescribed by a general dentist specifically for the purpose of strengthening the enamel.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in Sacramento, CA
Here at our general dentistry practice, we help our patients strengthen their teeth and gums through preventive and restorative treatments. We also assist our patients in crafting an at-home daily regimen to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Call or message us today to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment or call Jonathan Hayes, D.D.S. at 916-226-4885 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.
In general dentistry, dental sealants can help ensure good dental health in children. The protective layer can also extend up to adulthood. This gives patients the opportunity to enjoy strong teeth without worrying about dental damage. If you want to know how general dentistry makes use of dental sealants, here are the details.Chewing and biting…
Curious about what general dentistry professionals recommend for healthier gums? Read on to find out. Your gums support your teeth. If the gums and underlying jawbone are weakened, then teeth are vulnerable to becoming lost if left untreated for an extended amount of time. The good news is that you can have healthier gums through…
A general dentistry professional provides primary dental treatment to patients to maintain excellent oral health. These dentists can help you with any oral issues you may have, including bad breath. If you recently developed bad breath or have had it for a while, it is critical to undergo treatment. The condition can be embarrassing and…