Brushing and flossing the teeth are the most critical maintenance for healthy teeth, but regular dental visits and professional treatments help increase the protection against tooth decay. . One such treatment is professional fluoride application. A top-rated dentist Brooklyn Heights suggests fluoride treatments are essential for oral health maintenance, especially for those at increased risk for tooth decay.
What is Professional Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a vital role in hardening the enamel, which is the outer protective layer of your teeth. Through time, fluoride can remineralize weakened enamel and reverse the early stages of tooth decay. While fluoride is present in many dental products, such as toothpaste and mouth rinses, professional treatments administered by a dentist or hygienist in the dental setting contain a far higher concentration of fluoride, rendering them more potent in preventing caries and achieving optimal oral health.
Fluoride treatments are usually administered as gels, foams, or varnishes. The dentist will apply the treatment directly to your teeth, which will be absorbed into the enamel. Depending on your specific needs, the treatment can be applied in one session and may require periodic visits for maintenance.
How Does Fluoride Treatment Work?
When applied professionally, fluoride strengthens the enamel of the teeth, making them more resistant to decay. Enamel is constantly threatened by acids produced by bacteria in your mouth, which can erode it and lead to cavities. Fluoride helps to remineralize the enamel, repairing early signs of damage and preventing further breakdown.
In addition, fluoride treatments can also reduce the teeth’ sensitivity by forming a protective barrier over exposed areas of your teeth. This is useful to people who suffer from sensitive teeth caused by enamel wear or gum recession.
Advantages of Professional Fluoride Treatments
- Prevention of Cavities
One of the main advantages of fluoride treatments is their ability to prevent cavities. The fluoride your dentist applies penetrates the enamel and helps repair areas prone to decay. It also creates a shield against harmful bacteria that cause cavities, helping to maintain a healthier smile.
- Strengthens Enamel
Fluoride remineralizes the enamel and strengthens it, making it more resistant to future decay. Over time, the fluoride builds up in the enamel, providing long-lasting protection against the factors contributing to tooth decay, such as acidic foods, sugary drinks, and poor oral hygiene.
- Reduces Sensitivity
Fluoride treatments can be great for patients suffering from tooth sensitivity. Patients feel more comfortable consuming hot, cold, or sweet food items and drinks with fluoride sealing exposed dentin, the tissue below the enamel. This additional protection will significantly benefit people with tooth sensitivity.
- Suitable for All Ages
Fluoride treatments are appropriate for children and adults, though they are more beneficial for children still developing their teeth. In younger patients, fluoride helps strengthen enamel as it forms, reducing the risk of cavities as they age. However, adults can also benefit from fluoride treatments to maintain healthy teeth and reduce the likelihood of decay as they age.
- Affordable and Convenient
Fluoride treatments are relatively fast and inexpensive. A professional fluoride treatment session is just a few minutes during a routine dental check-up, so it is an easily accessible procedure for all ages. Furthermore, the long-term effects of fluoride make it a worthwhile investment in oral health.
Fluoride Treatments for Higher-Risk Patients
For some people, like those who have a history of frequent cavities, those who wear braces, or those with dry mouth, fluoride treatments can offer extra protection. If you are at a higher risk for tooth decay, your dentist may recommend more frequent fluoride treatments to help maintain your oral health and prevent cavities.
How Often Should You Get Fluoride Treatments?
The frequency of fluoride treatments is determined by the individual’s needs and risk factors. For most people, fluoride treatments Brooklyn are recommended every six months during routine dental cleanings. However, if you have specific risk factors that require added protection, your dentist may recommend more frequent treatments.
Conclusion
Professional fluoride treatments are an essential tool for maintaining dental health. Whether you are interested in preventing cavities, strengthening your enamel, or reducing tooth sensitivity, fluoride offers several benefits that will improve your smile and your oral health. Be sure to discuss fluoride treatments with your dentist and how these can help you protect your teeth. With regular fluoride treatments and good oral hygiene practices, you will enjoy a healthy, cavity-free smile for years.
