Fluoride treatment
Fluoride is a natural mineral that is absorbed by tooth enamel. It strengthens the surface of these, making them more resistant to decay. Fluoride will first benefit teeth that are forming or newly erupted. The tooth during its development needs fluoride to calcify. We can compare this phenomenon to that of calcium absorption by growing bones. For this reason, many children will benefit from fluoride treatment at our clinic following dental cleaning. It will be applied to the teeth in the form of a gel, foam or fluoride varnish. Another very interesting fact, fluoride can be an effective way to eliminate or at least reduce dental hypersensitivity. The problem of loosening of the teeth revealing a surface of dentin and causing sometimes acute sensitivity can be solved by topical applications of concentrated fluoride.
Fluoride Sources:
Fluoride is present at several levels:
- In some municipalities where the water is fluoridated
- In most toothpastes
- In foods like some green vegetables and some fish
- In fluoride supplements (chewable tablets or liquid)
- In treatment at our clinic in the form of gel, foam or fluoride varnish
A little vigilance is required with fluoride
Fluoride, although it is an excellent way to counter tooth decay and reduce dentin sensitivity, also has undesirable effects if it is not applied or consumed by following certain precautions. The most common is undoubtedly that of dental fluorosis. These are whitish spots with a chalky texture of more or less size and whose extent on the teeth varies from one case to another. These often appear in people who have ingested too much fluoride. We are talking here about fluoride supplements (chewable tablet or liquid) or a large amount of toothpaste swallowed frequently. Once they appear on the teeth, these stains will remain permanent, sometimes even hindering the aesthetic appearance of our smile. However, there is no cause for alarm. It is simply a matter of being vigilant when fluoride is ingested (systemic) to avoid the possible inconveniences associated with it.
Our Top 5 Fluoride Tips
- Be sure to use the amount of toothpaste recommended by your dentist. The size of a pea is enough. Wait until your child can cough up the toothpaste before giving them one that contains fluoride.
- Ask your dentist before giving your baby or child a fluoride supplement. The dosage may vary according to his age, his dental condition and your lifestyle. In many cases, we do not recommend taking fluoridated supplements (chewable tablet or liquid).
- During your appointment at our clinic, ask about the application of fluoride that we suggest to do on your child’s teeth after cleaning. This treatment performed by the dental hygienist is beneficial during the formation and eruption of teeth and is an excellent preventive measure against dental caries.
- Favor fluoride-rich foods such as green vegetables and fish. In addition to being good for your health, they contribute fluoride to the mineralization of your teeth.
- Educate your children about fluoride. Explain that toothpaste is a soap for the teeth and should not be swallowed excessively even though it tastes good.