What is Fluoride Treatment

When it comes to healthy teeth, one cannot skip discussing The importance of the mineral-Fluoride. It occurs naturally in several foods and even in the water. So, whenever we consume food and water, a layer is processed and removed, which is known as remineralization and demineralization, respectively. Now the question arises why this mineral is significant? Well, Fluoride prevents decaying by protecting them from the attacks of the bacteria and plaque buildup. It is also helpful in the development of permanent teeth.

What is Fluoride treatment

Even though Fluoride is present naturally in food and water, the amount varies. That is why one has to get the Fluoride in the form of treatment from the clinic to fulfill the mineral demands. This professional treatment can be in the form of rinse, gel, foam, or varnish. Similarly, it can be taken with a brush, tray, or even the mouthwash. You must also know that these solutions contain comparatively more amount of Fluoride than the toothpaste. Moreover, the best part is it does not take much time to perform the Fluoride treatment. But you can be asked to avoid eating anything within 30 minutes post-treatment.

Benefits of Fluoride treatment

Well, the importance of Fluoride is well-known by now. But how beneficial Fluoride treatment can be for your dental health? Have a look at a few of the benefits-

• Helps in the better utilization of minerals like calcium and phosphate.
• Assist in the reabsorption of the minerals to facilitate the strengthening of weak enamel.
• Reduce the vulnerability of the teeth for cavities and decay.
• Extends the life of the baby teeth.
• Assists the growth of healthy permanent teeth.
• Saves the person’s time that he would otherwise with the dentist.
• Strengthens the joints of the teeth structure.

Possible side-effects of Fluoride treatment

Though this is a rare case, still too much Fluoride can cause harmful effects for a person. The consumption of excessive Fluoride can be in any form like toothpaste and mouthwash. Below are the few of the side-effects that can be caused by an excessive intake of Fluoride-

• Dense but weak bones
• Stains on the teeth
• Patches and staining on the teeth enamel
• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Excessive sweating

Thus, nothing is okay when taken in an excessive amount, applicable to Fluoride too. You need to be careful, especially in the case of children, and give them only the required amount of the mineral as it can also turn to be fatal.

Recommendations Regarding Fluoride Treatments

The recommendations for Fluoride treatment may vary from person to person and even according to the age of the person. Generally, the person who is more prone to cavities needs more frequent sessions of Fluoride treatment. This is also the case with children as they are more involved in consuming sugary and sticky food, which makes them more vulnerable to damaged teeth. That is why a child should be given the treatment every 3-6 months depending upon the frequency of cavities. But to balance the amount of Fluoride, the caregivers will need to be careful about the amount of toothpaste they give to the children for brushing.

So, Fluoride treatment is useful and worth doing for everyone. Only make sure you have a proficient dentist to perform the same.

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.