Healthy Smiles Premier Dental
Fluoride is a mineral that has been proven to fight periodontal (oral) bacteria, while restoring the mineral to the enamel outer layer of teeth to prevent decay. It is found in trace amounts in most city water systems to make the benefits as accessible as possible, and is also in tea and kombucha, as well as some toothpastes.
You will be encouraged to use toothpastes that have fluoride, but be sure family members know not to swallow them, but rather spit them out after brushing (fluoride can cause problems in excess, like any medication).
Fluoride can Reduce the Risk of Cavities
Some misinformed people have claimed it is dangerous even in trace amounts, but this is not backed by scientific evidence. Studies have shown that if children and teens drink fluoridated water for even just one year, they are 40-60% less likely to get cavities than those who do not. Untreated cavities can cause teeth to die and need to be extracted.
Healthy Smiles’ pediatric dentists can also provide fluoride treatments in the form of a concentrated gel that is applied topically. This is usually covered by health insurance for children, while adults may have to pay a small amount out of pocket. Your dentist will also encourage you to use a dentist-grade mouthwash that includes fluoride.
Consistent Fluoride Treatment is Important
Of course, getting enough fluoride from whatever source still requires you to be diligent in brushing after breakfast and dinner for two minutes each time in the correct way, as well as flossing at night.
If you are having ongoing problems with cavities and gum disease, ask your dental hygienist to show you the proper techniques for brushing and flossing and be sure to have her give you a professional cleaning at least twice a year. She has the tools and techniques to make sure every surface of every tooth is thoroughly cleaned of plaque and its hardened form, tartar, even under the gum line, and can inject an anti-bacterial solution to help.
You should also have a full dental exam once or twice a year, including a full digital x-ray if your dentist suspects it will reveal hidden cavities or a periodontal infection that may have reached the jawbone. If you have not been examined recently or are interested in cosmetic dentistry, call Healthy Smiles Premier Dental today to book your free dental exam. We are a dentist in Gardena that also serves Lawndale, Torrance, Hawthorne, and surrounding areas.
