You may have heard your dentist in Boca Raton say to get more fluoride, especially if you’re prone to getting cavities? This mineral has been excellent in improving the health of people’s teeth for years. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get fluoride for your teeth so you can have a strong and healthy smile.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found throughout the Earth’s crust. It’s widely distributed in nature, including most water supplies. Dental professionals encourage people to treat their teeth with fluoride because of its ability to protect them. The American Dental Association (ADA) has even referred to it as “nature’s cavity fighter.”
Fluoride helps replenish calcium and phosphate ions, making your teeth more protected. It also helps control and protect against damage from the demineralization process that naturally occurs in your mouth.
Getting fluoride for your teeth has never been easier! It’s readily available in most water, oral hygiene tools, and even at the dentist’s office in the form of a fluoride treatment. Below are some of the common ways people can get the benefits of fluoride.
Most types of toothpaste you find at the store contain fluoride. Using fluoride toothpaste can help increase the concentration of the mineral in your teeth. This rings true even in areas where the water is highly fluoridated. Dental professionals strongly recommend fluoride toothpaste for both children and adults.
Dentists may prescribe a high-fluoride toothpaste for patients with severe tooth decay or a high risk of cavities. This will have a higher fluoride concentration than over-the-counter brands, and you should not share it with anyone else, especially children.
Fluoride is found in tap water and some bottled water, but certain areas may not have it available. The best way to determine if your water has fluoride is to call the local water utility company or public health department.
Similar to toothpaste, you can also find a mouthwash that contains fluoride in it. You will vigorously swish it in your mouth for about a minute, and it’s generally more beneficial to use before bedtime. Dentists can also prescribe a mouth rinse with a higher fluoride concentration for those who are prone to cavities.
Fluoride varnish is generally available during fluoride treatment at your dentist’s office. Your dentist paints a gel over the top of your teeth with a small brush. It applies sticky but hardens once your saliva touches it, making it impossible to accidentally lick it off during your treatment.
Applying the fluoride varnish is not painful, and you should only eat soft foods that are warm or cold a few hours after the treatment.
Fluoride can help teeth in many ways. It’s great for strengthening the teeth to protect them from cavities and tooth sensitivity. When given to children, it can help with the healthy development of their permanent teeth once it enters the bloodstream.
Below are some of the other benefits of fluoride:
Getting enough fluoride is only one step to maintaining a healthy smile. Visiting a dentist twice a year can keep you free of certain diseases and help you achieve beautiful teeth. If you’re looking for a dentist to provide the tools you need for a healthy smile, count on 5th Avenue Dental. Give our office a call if you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment.
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