Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally found in many foods and water. Due to demineralization and remineralization, minerals are lost and added to our teeth. Minerals are easily lost from our teeth when sugars are consumed due to the formation of plaque, which attacks the enamel. Fluoride is very important as it helps in remineralization, which prevents tooth decay by making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks. It is very important to have a good amount of fluoride in order to maintain optimal dental health.
Fluoride is found in foods and in water. Other ways to receive fluoride are through toothpaste, mouth wash, gel, foam or vanish at the dentist.
Here at Florence Dentistry, we offer fluoride treatments in the form of a varnish. The varnish is applied to your teeth during your dental visit, and it helps to act as a protective layer. It is recommended to follow a soft food diet for the next three days in order for the fluoride to remineralize.
The most critical time for fluoride to be exposed is for infants and children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years. This is the timeframe in which permanent teeth come in, and therefore it is important to ensure that tooth decay does not occur. However, even though this is a crucial period, it is still important to maintain good fluoride levels at all ages.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Florence Dentistry. We will gladly have you in for a fluoride treatment!
To learn more, please click on the following links:
