Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

You have probably noticed that your toothpaste contains fluoride. In fact, many municipal water supplies throughout the United States have very low amounts of fluoride added as a public health measure. Fluoride is a mineral that can be found in many foods. Although fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found throughout the world, many patients may be surprised to learn that exposure to fluoride is one of the best ways to safeguard against tooth decay—especially among children. As a preventive measure against cavities, your pediatric dentist may administer fluoride treatments from time to time. 

Although fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral found throughout the world, many patients may be surprised to learn that exposure to fluoride is one of the best ways to safeguard against tooth decay—especially among children.

Applied in the form of a varnish, gel, or foam, a fluoride treatment strengthens tooth enamel. As a protective layer on the outside of teeth, enamel is one of the hardest substances on earth. However, enamel is not impervious to damage. Strong acids from certain foods and beverages along with the acids produced by bacteria can strip away protective minerals in tooth enamel. Over time, damaged or worn down enamel is incapable of protecting the sensitive interior structures of teeth from cavity-causing bacteria.

Left on the teeth during a short office visit, fluoride treatments work by replenishing the structure of tooth enamel. Additionally, fluoride treatments help attract other essential minerals to teeth as well. Fluoride treatments are non-invasive and available in a variety of flavors that appeal to children.

By taking a proactive stance on kid’s dental health, frequent visits to your pediatric dentist offer more than professionally cleaned teeth. With frequent checkups and preventive services such as fluoride treatments, the incidence of tooth decay among children and adolescents can be significantly diminished.

When it comes to home care, our team recommends choosing ADA-approved toothpaste that contains fluoride for your family. Monitoring your child’s oral hygiene regimen will also help established healthy hygiene habits early on.

To learn more about fluoride treatments and cavity prevention, call our team at Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry to schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentists.