24 March 2017
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

Fluoride is an important mineral in dental health care because it is central in preventing tooth decay. In simple terms, this naturally occurring element helps harden the outer structure of the tooth, that is, the enamel. Basically, the enamel is made up of closely packed minerals. When the teeth are exposed to acidic substances and even oral bacteria, these minerals are lost. This process is commonly known as demineralisation, and it causes significant weakening of the teeth.

Fortunately, these minerals can be restored by remineralisation, which is the process by which minerals such as fluoride are incorporated into the dental structure. Simply speaking, proper intake of fluoride will harden the teeth, making the enamel less susceptible to damage and sensitivity. In general, people obtain sufficient fluoride from drinking water. However, if supplementation is necessary due to tooth decay risk or low fluoride water, consider these treatment options.

Fluoride Varnish

There are multiple advantages attached to choosing fluoride varnish for your dental treatment program. This material is applied on the teeth like paint, so the dentist can focus on the parts of your dental structure which are most susceptible to decay. Varnish also contains a high percentage of fluoride compared to most alternative treatments. In addition, this material is suitable for use by both children and adults. You can also choose alternative treatment options such as gel and foam. However, these are applied using dental trays because the formulation is different. This type of treatment should be administered in a clinic by a licensed dentist.

Fluoride Rinses

Fluoride rinses are ideal for older children and adults. They are helpful for individuals who are at high-risk of cavities. They can also prevent recurrence of dental degradation. You can purchase oral rinses with fluoride in pharmacies and stores. These can be purchased over-the-counter without a dentist's prescription. Unfortunately, the content of fluoride in this is quite for people with high fluoride requirements. Therefore, if you think you require more intense preventative care, you should discuss getting a prescription mouth rinse with high fluoride content with your doctor.

Fluoride Toothpaste

You can obtain fluoride from brushing daily with appropriate toothpaste. Typically, all toothpastes contain some amount of fluoride, but the quantity varies widely. This will affect its effectiveness in strengthening your teeth. Regular high-quality toothpaste can provide sufficient fluoride for normal remineralisation requirements. However, if you are at-risk with regard to dental decay, you should consider high fluoride strength alternatives. If you are uncertain about the most suitable choice for your needs, consult your dentist for recommendations.