When Are Fluoride Treatments Necessary?
What if we told you that one of the most powerful treatments you can receive at your dentist’s office takes only a few minutes to complete and is completely painless? Fluoride treatments are an excellent way to protect your teeth from cavities and decay. Below, we’ll walk through what a fluoride treatment entails and how often you should get one.
What Is a Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in rocks, soil, water, and air. One of its most beneficial properties is that it wards off cavity-causing bacteria and tooth decay. In fact, fluoride is a common ingredient in toothpastes for that very reason, and many areas of the United States add fluoride to their tap water supplies to help people maintain healthier smiles.
A fluoride treatment harnesses the power of fluoride. Applied to your teeth in the form of a foam, rinse, gel, or varnish, it takes just a few seconds for the fluoride to bond to your teeth and create a protective seal. Fluoride treatments typically take place after a routine dental cleaning or exam, and you are free to eat or drink 30 minutes after your treatment.
How Much Fluoride Is Too Much?
How much fluoride you need depends on your health history. It is possible to have too much fluoride exposure, which can cause small brown spots on your teeth. But generally, most people can go three, six, or twelve months between fluoride treatments.
Of course, fluoride treatments are not the only way to prevent cavities and decay. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day and visiting your dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and examinations are the best ways you can maintain a healthy smile, along with enjoying a balanced diet that is low in sugar and acidic foods and beverages and avoiding smoking.
Preventative Dentistry in Chico, CA
We offer fluoride treatments among our many general, restorative, and cosmetic treatment options at Gary Johnson DDS Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. If you are looking for a comprehensive dental office that caters to the needs of patients of all ages and budgets, we encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment today. We look forward to seeing you!