The goal of great dental health care is to save as many teeth as possible. Using fluoride is a treatment that many dentists recommend to their patients. The addition of fluoride to drinking water and oral care products has played an important role in improving General Dentistry in Vancouver WA.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is naturally occurring and found in the Earth’s crust. Ever since the 1930s, researchers have noted the positive effect fluoride seems to have on oral health. It’s added to public water supplies and found in many popular brands of over-the-counter oral hygiene products.
Fluoride and Cavities
Decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth. If this bacteria isn’t rinsed away in a timely manner, it forms a sticky mater on the teeth called plaque. Over a short period of time, plaque hardens into a more dangerous substance known as tartar. The bacteria in tartar may eat through tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
General Dentistry in Vancouver WA relies on fluoride to help prevent cavities. It’s especially recommended for young children and those who are more prone to cavities. Fluoride is found in many forms of toothpaste and mouthwash. Dental clinics even offer fluoride rinses to their patients.
Fluoride and Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is very common. While some people seek Emergency dental care for tooth sensitivity, this condition is usually harmless. However, it does cause a lot of pain and discomfort. Some dentists use a highly concentrated fluoride treatment to reduce tooth sensitivity in patients.
Those with tooth sensitivity may also see results by simply brushing and rinsing with products that contain added fluoride. It’s speculated that fluoride helps to remineralize soft tooth enamel, which makes teeth less prone to sensitivity.
Fluoride and Whiteness
White teeth are sought by many people. As a person ages, their tooth enamel beings to thin. This causes teeth to appear darker. Studies suggest that brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste protects tooth enamel and keeps teeth looking brighter for longer.
Fluoride plays an important role in the world of dentistry. It’s approved for use in clinical settings and at home. Fluoride is one-way dental patients can keep their smiles looking their best. Ask a dentist if a fluoride treatment would be beneficial to your smile.
