Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. Fluoride treatments applied by a dentist are especially good for people at increased risk of tooth decay or tooth erosion. If you have a dry mouth, weak enamel, poor oral health, or if you have crowns, ask your dentist if applying a fluoride varnish would help protect your teeth. Fluoride varnish is safe and is used by dentists and doctors around the world to help prevent tooth decay in children.
Only a small amount is used and fluoride is hardly ingested. It applies quickly and hardens. It is then removed with a brush after 4 to 12 hours. Fluoride (referred to as soil eyes) is a mineral found naturally in soil, water and air and has been shown to prevent tooth decay or tooth decay.
Over the past few decades, fluoride has been added to community water supplies and oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwashes. Fluoride works by strengthening the hard outer surface of the tooth, called enamel. Instead of going to the dentist to face the drill, imagine that you undergo a quick and painless treatment that helps prevent cavities. Pediatricians are trained to apply fluoride varnish because many young children don't see or have access to a dentist until they are older.
Parents with children under 2 years of age should consult with their healthcare provider, pediatrician, or dentist before starting to use fluoride toothpaste. If you're at increased risk of developing tooth decay, your dentist may also recommend other preventive measures, such as over-the-counter or prescription mouthwashes or fluoride gels, or an antibacterial mouthwash. The dentist will examine your teeth and gums to check for any changes that may cause tooth decay or gum disease, which will require treatment. Fluoride occurs naturally in most water sources, but adding trace amounts of fluoride to tap water is especially beneficial for people who don't have regular access to a dentist.
Ask your dentist about the benefits of fluoride treatments and maintain your daily dental hygiene regimen. In the dental office, a dentist can apply fluoride varnish or gel, and in some public health programs, children may have fluoride varnish applied to their teeth. It's important to discuss these treatments with your insurance provider before you get one at the dentist's office. Don't worry; dentist-applied fluoride varnish is safe to help prevent cavities in children.
According to Stanford Children's Health, children can begin receiving fluoride treatments at the dentist once their first tooth appears. Be sure to have a dental cleaning and checkup at least once a year, and talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments.
