Fluoride treatments are well known for paediatric dental patients, but did you know that fluoride treatments offer many benefits for adults as well?
We want everyone to know about the benefits of fluoride for adults. That’s why we sat down with some of our dental hygienists to learn the most important facts about fluoride treatments. As you’ll see, there are many benefits for both adults and children!
Facts About Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, and even air!
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay in children and adults by demineralizing weakened tooth surfaces. By strengthening tooth enamel, it becomes more resistant to acid attacks from food and drink.
Fluoride Can Be Applied Topically Or Ingested (Systemically).
We often talk about fluoride being in the water we drink. Some cities monitor the fluoride content of drinking water and add fluoride when it is naturally insufficient. Drinking fluoridated water benefits teeth as they form. Drinking fluoridated water while teeth are growing makes enamel stronger and more resistant to decay.
Topically applied fluoride is available in a variety of forms, such as over-the-counter rinses and toothpaste. Your dentist’s office can also provide fluoride foams, gels or varnishes for topical application.
Adults can benefit from fluoride treatments, too! We usually associate fluoride treatments with children. However, they are not the only ones who can benefit. Like children, adults can also frequently consume sugary and acidic drinks and snacks, leaving them with weakened tooth enamel.
Fluoride treatments at the dentist’s office are very beneficial. These treatments have a higher concentration than products you can buy at the store, and can give your tooth structure the mineral boost it needs to strengthen weakened areas and reduce sensitivity. Discuss your individual needs with your dentist to determine if you would benefit from fluoride treatment.
There are many reasons your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment. If you are at high risk for tooth decay and/or are sensitive, eat a diet high in sugar and acid, don’t go for regular dental care, take certain medications, or suffer from dry mouth, you should talk to your dentist about fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel.
Some dental insurance companies cover fluoride treatments. Each insurance is different and the coverage varies. Regardless of insurance coverage, preventive services such as fluoride treatments can help reduce future dental costs and save you money in the long run.
No matter how long it’s been since your last dental visit, your dental care team at Ideal Smile Dentistry is here to help you achieve excellent oral health! If you think fluoride treatment could be beneficial for you, schedule an appointment today.
Dry Mouth: Causes And Treatment
Waking up with a dry mouth? Not only can it cause discomfort, it can also have a negative impact on your dental health. Common symptoms include a dry, sticky feeling in the mouth, difficulty speaking or swallowing, bad breath or a dry and sore mouth.
What Causes Dry Mouth?
The causes of dry mouth vary, but the most common is due to certain medications, ageing, dehydration or as a result of cancer radiotherapy. Less commonly, dry mouth can be the result of a disease affecting the salivary glands.
Why Is Dry Mouth A Problem?
Saliva is important for your dental health because it helps prevent tooth decay by rinsing away food. They also help you eat, swallow and digest food. If saliva is not secreted enough, plaque build-up, tooth decay and gum disease can increase. Other common complications are cleft lip, mouth ulcers or a yeast infection in the mouth, also known as thrush.
How To Treat Dry Mouth?
Depending on your specific symptoms, there are different treatment options that can be performed by both your primary care provider and your dentist. If your doctor thinks your medications are the cause, he or she may adjust your dosage or change your medications. He may also prescribe a mouth rinse. Your dentist may provide treatments to help protect your teeth from decay and cavities, such as fluoride trays.
In addition to the interventions from your doctor and dentist, it is important to continue brushing your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, use fluoride toothpaste and have regular cleanings at the dentist to check for signs of tooth decay.
If you are concerned about your oral health or find that you have a dry mouth, call your dentist today to make an appointment.
