Brushing and flossing will keep one’s teeth healthy and clean, but it is not always enough to keep cavities away. There are some parts in our mouths; a standard toothbrush doesn’t reach, and the food remains in these spaces encourages cavities.
Luckily a visit to a dentist every six months can help a child grow cavity-free. The dentist cleans these hard-to-reach areas and applies other measures to prevent cavities. One of the measures taken is a fluoride treatment.
How to Get Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is well-known for its ability to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Tap water in most US states contains fluoride, but the amount contained is not always enough for developing teeth. However, even this small amount helps prevent tooth decay by up to 25 percent.
That said, a person can get fluoride treatment in a dental office. A dentist uses high amounts of fluoride, but not too high to cause any damage. He applies the fluoride on the patient’s teeth to prevent decay and strengthen them.
Alternatively, you can have a fluoride treatment from home. However, you will need to follow the instructions to the letter. If you don’t, you may damage your teeth. That’s why dental clinic fluoride treatments are always recommended. You can talk to us if you require dentistry for a fluoride treatment in Scottsdale.
Who Should Get Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment can be of help if you are struggling with any of the following problems:
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is often caused by medications. It can also be a result of diseases, high blood pressure, or radiation treatments. When you lack enough saliva in the mouth, it becomes challenging to swallow food and can also cause bad breath. If you are struggling with dry mouth, the application of fluoride can be of help.
Gum Disease
Periodontitis (gum disease) is a widespread dental infection and one of the leading causes of tooth loss. If left untreated for long, it can spread throughout the mouth and lead to multiple teeth loss. Fluoride treatment can help with this condition.
History Cavities
Cavities “attack” everyone, but some people are more prone to them than others. If you have a history of developing cavities or your family does, you require this treatment even more.
Fluoride Treatment Cost
The treatment is often covered by insurance for kids. However, you don’t need to sweat if you don’t have an insurance plan. Fluoride application is cheap, and it will not cost you more than 30 dollars. Talk to your dentist first, and he will give you the exact amount you should expect to spend.
Benefits
The treatment comes with many benefits, which include:
Improves Usage of Other Minerals
When the dentist applies fluoride on your teeth, it improves the usage of other minerals such as calcium and phosphate in your body. These minerals help strengthens your teeth and repair enamel.
Makes Your Teeth Less Vulnerable
Our mouths are usually full of bacteria. When these bacteria combine with food remains, they form acids. These acids attack our teeth and lead to cavities. A fluoride treatment makes your teeth less susceptible to harmful bacteria.
Attacks Harmful Bacteria
Our mouths have good and harmful bacteria. Good bacteria help with digestion, while harmful encourage cavities and infections. Fluoride attacks the harmful bacteria slowing reactions or even reversing them.
Reduces the Need to Visit the Dentist
We all should visit the dentist at least twice a year. However, if you have constant toothaches, tooth decay, and gum disease, you may have to visit the dentist more. You can avoid extra expenses by getting a fluoride treatment.
Improves Your Overall Health
When you have optimal oral health, your overall health improves. Also, when you have poor oral health, it can lead to other severe medical conditions. Getting the treatment is a part of improving your oral health.
Side Effects
Fluoride is considered safe for both adults and children. However, it does have some side effects, which include:
- Tooth discoloration if consumed in high amounts
- Allergic reactions to some people
- Toxic effects on persons who fail to follow the instructions
- It can lead to excessive sweating and nausea if taken in excess.
Landmark Smiles
Talk to us if you are looking for a fluoride treatment in Scottsdale. We have been offering dentistry in Scottsdale and surrounding areas for 10+ years. You can count on our experience. Book an appointment now.