STRENGTHEN YOUR TEETH WITH A FLUORIDE TREATMENT

Having a cavity is the exact opposite of what you would consider a good time. Sensitivity to hot and cold, pain when you chew, and a trip to the dentist can make you want to avoid sweet treats in order to prevent cavities for the rest of your life.

Strengthening your teeth to prevent cavities can help you keep those pearly whites healthy while still enjoying the good things in life. So how do you strengthen your teeth? One way to toughen up your teeth is by getting a fluoride treatment from your dentist.

What is a Fluoride Treatment?

Before we dive into what a fluoride treatment is, let’s define what fluoride is. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps prevent and repair tooth decay. Fluoride can be found in your toothpaste, mouthwash, and in some cases, even your water. It helps prevent cavities by hardening the protective layer of enamel on your teeth.

Moving on, a fluoride treatment is a high concentration of fluoride that is applied directly to your teeth. It can come in gel, foam, or solution form and is applied by a dentist who follows safe oral hygiene practices. A fluoride treatment can repair spots on your teeth that are in the early stages of decay and can help protect your oral health.

How Long Does a Fluoride Treatment Take?

Luckily, a fluoride treatment only takes a few minutes to complete. The dentist applies the solution to your teeth with a brush or cotton swab and lets it sit for several minutes. You may also be asked to bite down on a tray filled with foam solution. A fluoride treatment is painless and quick, the only side effect being a bit of drool as you wait for the solution to be absorbed by your teeth.

There is no easy answer to this question. How long a fluoride treatment lasts depends on many factors. Depending on your oral hygiene, your diet, your professional dental care, the amount of bacteria in your mouth, and many other factors, fluoride treatments can be effective for different periods of time. Generally speaking, your dentist will recommend a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months.

Talking to your dentist about the state of your oral health will be important to determine how often you need to have a fluoride treatment.

What You Need to Know After Treatment

While a fluoride treatment will not cause any sensitivity or pain, it will require some patience. Your dentist, as well as the American Dental Association, will most likely recommend you wait 30 minutes to one hour before you eat or drink after treatment. This recommendation ensures that your teeth fully absorb the fluoride and that it is not washed away before it becomes effective.

Fluoride treatments are extremely helpful when you want to reinforce your teeth and keep them healthy. Talk to your dentist today or call Bonaventure Dental to schedule your fluoride treatment and keep your smile cavity free.