Fluoride is a topic that often sparks curiosity and sometimes confusion, especially when it comes to its role in dental health. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s dental care, an adult seeking to prevent cavities, you probably have questions. From its benefits and safety to how often treatments are needed, there’s a lot to learn. In this blog post, we’ll address some of the most commonly asked questions about fluoride to help you make informed decisions about your oral health.

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What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

How does fluoride work?

Fluoride helps remineralize tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugar in the mouth. It can also reverse early signs of tooth decay.

Are fluoride treatments safe?

Yes, fluoride treatments are safe when applied by a trained professional such as a dentist or dental hygienist or assistant. These individuals have been trained to use the correct amount of fluoride during treatment that is safe, yet effective.

How often should I get fluoride treatments?

Fluoride treatments are commonly done at bi-annual checkups or every six months. If an individual is more susceptible to tooth decay, a dental practitioner may recommend more frequent treatment.

Are there any side effects of fluoride treatments?

The side effects of fluoride are extremely limited. However, ingesting large amounts of fluoride over a long period of time can cause dental fluorosis, which are white spots on the teeth. This is more common to occur in children whose teeth are still developing.

What should I do after a fluoride treatment?

After getting a fluoride treatment, it is recommended that you do not eat or drink anything for 30 minutes. Doing so allows the fluoride treatment to be fully absorbed into your teeth’s enamel.

Should children get fluoride treatments?

Yes, children should get fluoride treatments. Fluoride treatments are safe for children, especially when given by a dental professional.

Can adults get fluoride treatments?

Adults can get fluoride treatments and are encouraged to do so if they experience tooth decay or have a history of cavities.

Can you get fluoride treatments with braces?

You can get fluoride treatments if you have braces. Some individuals find that it is difficult to brush well with braces which makes fluoride treatments beneficial with braces. It can help prevent cavities and tooth decay for those hard-to-reach brushing areas.

What are some sources of fluoride besides dental treatments?

Fluoride is found in most toothpastes and mouthwashes. It is likely that your drinking water is treated with fluoride. Certain foods have fluoride in them as well such as potatoes, spinach, grapes, and oatmeal to name a few.

Do I need fluoride treatments if I use a toothpaste with fluoride?

Using a fluoride toothpaste can help keep your teeth clean and protected daily, but it is still important to get fluoride treatments. A treatment uses a higher concentration and offers additional protection against cavities.

Fluoride is a key mineral in dental care due to its ability to strengthen enamel, prevent cavities, and repair early tooth decay. It is widely used in various dental products and public health measures to promote oral health. If you are in need of a fluoride treatment, contact one of our metro Detroit locations to get scheduled for a dental cleaning.

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