Are Fluoride Treatments Necessary for Adults?

Over time, tooth enamel wears away, making teeth vulnerable to decay or other dental damage. While maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling routine dental exams and cleanings can reduce the chance of decay, so can fluoride treatments!

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in foods and water. This mineral has proven to prevent, rebuild and reverse weakened tooth enamel. Because fluoride is a mineral that can help prevent cavities, it’s added to many products like toothpaste or mouthwash. Specific benefits of fluoride include:

• Reversal of early tooth decay

• Prevention of bacterial growth

• Ability to rebuild weak tooth enamel

When Should I Get a Fluoride Treatment?

While you may take good care of your oral health, application of a fluoride treatment by a professional will still provide beneficial protection against cavities. The American Dental Association recommends that fluoride treatments occur every three, six, or 12 months. Typically, when a patient comes in for a routine cleaning and exam, the dental hygienist will recommend a fluoride treatment. It’s a simple, painless procedure that only takes a few minutes.

Fluoride Treatment for Adults

You might think that fluoride treatments are only necessary for kids. Although it is a preventive measure that particularly benefits kids who are at higher risk of developing cavities, you don’t “grow out of” the need for fluoride. There are several reasons why a professional fluoride treatment is still beneficial to adults. As was mentioned earlier, besides protecting from cavities, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel. Patients of all ages benefit from stronger tooth enamel. Weak enamel not only leads to cavities but also makes the patient more susceptible to developing gum disease. Fluoride can also help reduce hypersensitivity along the gum line to cold foods, drinks or tooth brushing.

Fluoride Treatment with Dental Solutions of Central Park

If you’re looking to take an extra step in your dental care, visit our team at Dental Solutions of Central Park! We offer fluoride treatments and other preventive care services to help your smile stay healthy and bright. Give our office a call to schedule your fluoride treatment today!

Categorised in: Preventive Dental Care