What Is A Fluoride Treatment? – Benefits Of Fluoride Treatment In Oral Care.

Introduction

It is common knowledge that teeth require certain minerals to be healthy and strong. Minerals for improving oral care include Vitamin A, Vitamin D, phosphorous, iron, potassium, fluoride, iodine, etc. You can get these minerals from food sources and supplements.

Fluoride is a natural mineral that prevents cavities and improves tooth enamel; it is present in water sources. You can also obtain fluoride from toothpaste and as treatment from dentists.

What Are Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride treatments contain more fluoride than water sources and toothpaste. They can be in the form of foam, rinse, or gel. Dental fluoride treatments are professional treatments where dentists apply fluoride in concentrated amounts to the teeth with a swab, brush, or mouthwash.

Dentists recommend dental fluoride treatments every 6 to 12 months, depending on oral health. It is best practice to avoid eating or drinking at least 30 minutes after the treatment, allowing the teeth to absorb the fluoride and repair microscopic areas.

Are Fluoride Treatments Safe?

Discuss your dental needs with your dentist before undergoing a dental fluoride treatment. Generally, fluoride treatment is safe except for people with allergies to fluoride. However, allergic reactions to fluoride are rare.

Benefits Of Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments provide several benefits for the teeth, including;

• Strengthening the teeth enamel and protecting them from harmful bacteria and cavities
• Increasing absorption of other minerals such as calcium and phosphate to repair weak tooth enamel
• Preventing gum disease
• Reducing tooth pain
• Preventing loss of teeth

Who Should Get Fluoride Treatments?

Both children and adults require fluoride treatments. Children should get fluoride treatment every 3 – 6 months, depending on their risk of cavities. Adults with moderate to high risk of cavities should get fluoride treatments twice a year. Furthermore, people that live in areas where water does not contain fluoride should regularly get fluoride treatments.

What Is The Optimal Quantity Of Fluoride?

There are other fluoride treatments such as toothpaste and mouth rinses. To prevent overexposure to fluoride,

• Children below three years should use only a smear or 0.1 to 1 milligram (mg) of fluoridated toothpaste.
• Children between 4 and 6 years should use a pea-sized amount or 1 to 2.5 mg of toothpaste. Also, children below six should not use mouth rinses.
• Children between 7 and 10 years should use toothpaste between 1.5 and 2.5 mg
• Adolescents and adults should use toothpaste between 1.5 and 4 mg.

Where Can You Get Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride is present in water sources. Apart from visiting the dentist, you can obtain fluoride from toothpaste, gels, foam, varnishes, and mouth rinses.

After Fluoride Treatment

After applying fluoride, there are fluoride treatment rules that you should follow. Fluoridated products have rules that you should follow for the best results. Generally, fluoride treatment rules include:

• Do not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes
• Avoid hot or cold foods and liquids
• Do not brush or floss for six hours
• Avoid alcohol, including mouthwash

Side Effects Of Fluoride

Consuming fluoride in large amounts has side effects. Some side effects of fluoride include;

1. Teeth discoloration
2. Nausea
3. Tiredness
4. Diarrhea
5. Skeletal weakness
6. High blood pressure

Oral Hygiene Tips

Although using fluoride can protect your teeth, overall oral hygiene is vital in preventing cavities and plaque. Some oral hygiene tips include;

• Brushing regularly
• Flossing once a day
• Visiting a dentist regularly
• Drink more water
• Use a mouthwash
• Avoid smoking
• Reduce sugary foods