The American Dental Association recommends fluoride treatments for young and old patients. Fluoride is a natural element that can strengthen your teeth. It can also protect your teeth from bacterial acid damage. Here are the details that you must consider to prevent tooth decay by having fluoride treatments.

Fluoride and Oral Health

Plaque forms after every meal or after drinking something sweet. This sticky layer has bacteria that produce acids. It destroys the enamel layer of your teeth. This will weaken the enamel enough for it to be vulnerable to breaking or cavities. 

Dentists have been using fluoride treatments for decades. They help your teeth and gums stay healthy. Your dentist can recommend fluoride treatments if you are at risk of developing cavities and dental caries. These treatments can shield your pocket from expensive treatments. 

What to Expect During a Fluoride Treatment

Your dentist will form a high-fluoride varnish, foam, rinse, or gel. Applying this treatment will follow after a thorough dental cleaning. The dentist may ask you if you have fluoridated water. If you do not have, you may talk about adding fluoride to your daily diet. This will be in the form of fluoride supplements. After your treatment, your dentist will advise you to avoid drinking or eating for 30 minutes. This will allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. 

The Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

Getting regular fluoride treatments has many benefits for your dental and general health. Your dentist will talk to you about these advantages. That way, you can understand what fluoride treatments can provide. Here are the benefits of fluoride treatment:

• It slows down or even reverses cavity formation

• It aids your body in using different minerals, such as phosphate and calcium

• It strengthens the teeth by killing cavity-forming bacteria

• It prevents gum disease

• It prevents early tooth loss

• It reduces dental pain

The Right Amount of Fluoride

Research reveals that you should have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months. The frequency will depend on your oral health. A fluoride gel or rinse is a good way to keep getting your fluoride treatments at home, especially if you are at risk for cavity formation. You have a high risk for dental decay if any of the following apply to you:

• A lack of professional dental care

• Excessive consumption of alcohol or drugs

• Weak enamel

• Dry mouth

• An eating disorder

• Poor diet

• Poor oral care

You can get your fluoride allowance from typical foods, such as fish, tea, and water. You can also ask your dentist about fluoride supplements, especially if your water is not fluoridated. Scientists believe that a child should get 0.1 milligrams to 1.5 milligrams of fluoride from birth to three years old. Children four to six years old must get 1 milligram to 2.5 milligrams. Teens and adults should have 1.5 milligrams to 4 milligrams of fluoride. 

Getting regular fluoride treatments can make your teeth stronger and decay-free. At Eagle Gate Dental, we always advise our patients about the need to get a fluoride treatment. Feel free to visit our clinic in Salt Lake City, Utah, for a one-on-one consultation. Call us at 801-781-5300 to schedule an appointment or inquire about our fluoride treatment packages.