How fluoride treatments are used to prevent tooth decay
Patients looking to protect their smile from cavities and periodontal disease will want to talk to the dentists at Family Dentistry of Caledonia about specific preventive treatments. One of these is fluoride therapy, a way for patients to prevent tooth decay and reduce their risk of developing infections. Drs. Gary L. Scott and Allyson M. Grove of Caledonia, Michigan, can evaluate you to determine if you are a good candidate for fluoride treatment at the dentist and educate you on its benefits.
What is fluoride?
First, let’s talk about what fluoride is and how it is used to protect the smile. Fluoride is a mineral found in all water supplies and certain foods. It works by helping to strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to acids that can lead to cavities. Fluoride also makes teeth less susceptible to bacterial invasion, which can cause periodontal disease.
When you have professional treatment from our team, we can administer a concentrated form of fluoride to your teeth to give them the extra protection they need. This protecting layer helps seal off enamel from harmful bacteria and acid and also helps to remineralize areas where decay has already started.
When is fluoride therapy recommended?
Fluoride therapy can be beneficial whenever you have an increased risk of developing cavities or periodontal disease. This typically includes patients of all ages prone to cavities, have experienced previous dental trauma or decay, or have dry mouth due to certain medications or medical conditions. Children may also benefit from fluoride treatments to protect their newly developing teeth and set them up for a life of proper oral hygiene.
What are the benefits of fluoride treatment for adults with tooth sensitivity?
In addition to helping patients who need to protect their smile from cavities, fluoride treatment applications at our office can also be advantageous for adult patients with tooth sensitivity. The fluoride can help harden the natural tooth enamel and address sensitivity issues in those who have found sensitive toothpaste ineffective or for patients who have had extensive enamel erosion.
How do I learn more about ways to prevent tooth decay and disease?
If you are considering fluoride treatment at the dentist, we welcome you to call (616) 816-5882 to request an upcoming visit with our team of professionals at Family Dentistry of Caledonia. We proudly serve our patients from the communities of Middleville, Grand Rapids, Cutlerville, Kentwood, Hastings, Alto, and Freeport, MI, from our office, conveniently located at 9021 North Rodgers Court SE, Suite E.