If you remember your younger days at the dental office, you probably remember your dentist telling you that fluoride rinses were key to your oral health. Applying a fluoride rinse made a big difference back then as a kid, but according to your dentist in North Central San Antonio, it can make just as much of a difference as an adult.
It’s very important that your teeth get enough fluoride through your entire life. After reading, you’ll find out why and learn what treatments are available.
Why Do I Still Need Fluoride Treatments?
Dentists push the importance of fluoride treatments for young patients because keeping their teeth healthy is incredibly important during that early stage of development. Keeping baby teeth healthy was key to ensuring permanent teeth grew in properly and remained healthy. Even though all your permanent teeth have erupted, it doesn’t mean they are not at any lower risk of developing tooth decay.
This is particularly true if you have a condition that contributes to fluoride loss, or if your diet lacks enough fluoride ions. If you’re losing fluoride faster than taking it in, then you’re always going to be at risk of tooth decay. Other minerals like calcium and phosphate are necessary as well to keep teeth strong, but fluoride is arguably the most important.
Conditions That Put Adults at Risk for Loss of Fluoride
As mentioned, adults who have certain conditions or habits are more prone to lose fluoride and therefore be at higher risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. If you have any of the following conditions or habits, you may want to seek fluoride supplements from your dentist in North Central San Antonio today. They include:
- A history of frequent cavities – Having a cavity found every year or every other year is not normal.
- Dental restorations present in the mouth – Whether it’s a crown, bridge, or braces, dental devices can make it more difficult to reach certain parts of the mouth.
- People who eat snacks often – People who eat sugary snacks multiple times throughout the day are more likely to develop cavities.
- Chronic dry mouth caused by medications – Saliva is needed to wash away acids and food debris. It also works to remineralize teeth.
- Gum recession or gum disease – When the tooth roots are exposed, bacteria can easily enter and cause tooth decay.
In What Forms are Fluoride Treatments Available?
During your appointment, your dentist can apply fluoride to the surface of teeth in the form of gel, foam, or a varnish. These concentrated treatments contain far more fluoride ions than an over-the-counter toothpaste and can be done in a single visit. However, patients looking for an extra fluoride boost outside of the office can benefit from fluoride supplements. These come in tablets or liquids and require a prescription from either your dentist or family doctor.
Ready to give your teeth the protection they deserve? Schedule an appointment with your dentist today to learn how you can benefit from fluoride treatments!
About the Author
Dr. Brian L. Eck earned his DDS degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He’s a master of overall dental health and offers fluoride treatments to patients of all ages. To learn more about his practice, contact him at (210) 361-8905 or visit his website.
