The Health Benefits of Fluoride

The Health Benefits of Fluoride

Posted by Kathy Armijio Dec 25, 2022

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Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens teeth and prevents tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. It’s found in certain foods and water, toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professional treatments from your dentist. Professional treatments like fluoride varnishes or gels may be recommended based on your specific needs.

Fluoride helps remove the bacteria that cause plaque, which can lead to bad breath and discolored teeth. It also slows the rate at which sugars decay in your teeth and increases your saliva production.

At Northtowne Dental, this treatment can prevent the early stages of tooth decay before it even starts! Tooth decay happens when acids in your mouth wear away at the enamel of your teeth. The enamel is the hard outer layer of your tooth that protects it against bacteria and infection. As more tooth erosion occurs from the acid, more significant areas of your tooth can be affected over time and eventually cause tooth loss. Fluoride can reverse this process and prevent tooth decay from occurring in the first place.

The Benefits of Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, reduces sensitivity, and fights cavities and tooth decay. It can also reverse early stages of damage like white spots or discoloration on teeth. An added benefit to your child’s teeth is that this mineral also helps to prevent the onset of harmful oral bacteria that can lead to gum disease and other serious health issues later in life.

At our office, we recommend fluoride treatments to all of our patients. First, the dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth to ensure no visible signs of decay, disease, or damage. Then they will apply the fluoride as a gel or foam onto the teeth using a soft brush. The treatment only takes a few minutes per arch. Once your dentist is finished, you will rinse out your mouth, and the fluoride will be removed entirely.

Are Fluoride Treatments Safe?

Fluoride treatments are very safe when a dentist or other trained professional applies. However, you should consult your doctor before beginning any fluoride supplements. Some medical conditions, such as kidney disease, may prevent fluoride treatments. Children under the age of 6 often receive minimal doses of fluoride in supplement form to prevent cavities. Still, it is recommended that adults avoid using supplements unless instructed by a physician. Pregnant women should talk to their dentist or physician before receiving fluoride treatments, as higher amounts of the substance can cause a condition known as enamel fluorosis in the developing fetus. Older adults and patients with dry mouth syndrome may also see increased sensitivity following fluoride treatments.

To learn more about fluoride treatments and how they can help protect your oral health, contact Northtowne Dental at 5900 Cubero Drive NE, Suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87109, or call (505) 797-1000.



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Location

5900 Cubero Drive NE, Suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87109

Phone: (505) 884-1989

Office Hours

MON - TUE7:00 am - 4:00 pm

WED9:00 am - 5:00 pm

THU8:00 am - 5:00 pm

FRIBy appointments only

SAT - SUNClosed