Fluoride is Actually Safer Than You Think
Taking care of your oral hygiene is important, so make sure you are cleaning properly by using products that contain fluoride. It has been proven that fluoride will help protect and prevent teeth from cavities and help make your teeth stronger. Fluoride can protect teeth against demineralization that is caused by the acid when bacteria in the mouth combine with sugars. Unfortunately this acid can erode tooth enamel and damage your teeth. Fluoride also helps by a process called remineralization. This is where fluoride accumulates in the areas that have weak enamel and begins strengthening it. While some think fluoride is not safe, the truth is fluoride is extremely safe, as long as you follow the recommended amount.
Why it is safe
Fluoride is safe and is extremely useful in preventing cavities and making teeth stronger. Fluoride that is in mouthwash, toothpaste, and other dental products, contain a safe and adequate amount. If you use too much fluoride, you can develop fluorosis or even have issues with your stomach lining and increased nausea. While fluoride in large amounts can cause issues, the amount that is in dental products and fluoride treatments is a small amount and is extremely safe. In fact, on the same day, you can have a fluoride treatment, brush your teeth twice, and use mouthwash and be perfectly safe.
When you should have Fluoride
Fluoride is very beneficial for anyone of any age. You can have a fluoride treatment done while you are at your regularly scheduled dental examination. This takes only a matter of minutes and can be quite simple and easy. We place fluoride gel or paste into a mouth tray that you leave in your mouth for only a few minutes. After that, we take out the tray, and you can be on your way. With most fluoride treatments, it is recommended you wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything, so the fluoride does not get removed. Besides having it done there, you can also have the option of purchasing a mouthwash that contains fluoride in it as well. This is beneficial because as a rinse, it is sure to cover every area of your mouth. Fluoride is also contained in most toothpaste on the market today. This ensures you that you are getting the adequate amount of fluoride everyday, every time you brush.
Avoid Fluorosis
Dental Fluorosis is the excessive exposure to high concentrations of fluoride during tooth development that results in tiny white streaks or specks in the enamel of the tooth. In severe cases of fluorosis, there is even more discoloration and brown markings on the tooth. The tooth may also have enamel that is rough and pitted and will be difficult to clean. By using the recommended amount, and by not eating or swallowing toothpaste or mouthwash on a daily basis, you can avoid too much fluoride and avoid fluorosis. If you ever have questions or concerns regarding fluoride, please feel free to ask us for advice.