Fluoride, or Fluoride, is a natural mineral that builds strong teeth and prevents cavities. Fluoride supports healthy tooth enamel and fights bacteria that damage teeth and gums. Tooth enamel is the outer protective layer of every tooth.
Fluoride is especially useful when there is a high risk of developing tooth decay or cavities. Cavities form when bacteria accumulate on the teeth and gums and form a sticky layer of plaque. Plaque produces an acid that erodes teeth and gum tissue. If plaque breaks through the tooth enamel layer, bacteria can infect and damage the nerves and blood in the core of the tooth.
What happens during a professional Fluoride gel treatment?
Fluoride gel treatment contains much more fluoride than that in your water or toothpaste. You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after treatment to allow the fluoride to be fully absorbed.
The following can increase your risk of cavities:
Excessive drug or alcohol use
Eating disorder
poor oral hygiene
Lack of professional dental care
malnutrition
Dry mouth or decreased saliva
Weak tooth enamel
What are the benefits of applying fluoride varnish?
Fluoride works by restoring minerals to tooth surfaces where bacteria may have eroded tooth enamel. It can also inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria and prevent cavities.
Fluoride benefits both children and adults. If children at an earlier age are exposed to fluoride, they are less likely to develop cavities.
Do you need to use toothpaste?
Brushing your teeth twice a day is the best way to remove plaque from your teeth and gums. It is necessary to use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to reach the tooth surfaces that the toothbrush cannot cover.
Tooth brushing motion and friction are very important. You can brush your teeth with just water, but using other toothpastes and other cleaning agents containing fluoride will greatly increase the benefits of brushing your teeth.
Fluoride occurs naturally in most water sources, but adding trace amounts of fluoride to tap water is especially beneficial for people who do not have regular access to a dentist.