What Exactly is the Benefit of Receiving a Fluoride Treatment?

You have finally finished your hygiene visit with your dental hygienist when she turns to you and asks you what flavor fluoride you would like today. As you listen to the different flavors that she is listing off, you can’t help but think to yourself, “what exactly is the benefit of having a fluoride treatment at the end of your dental hygiene visit,” and maybe even what is fluoride anyway? Fluoride is a mineral that can be found naturally in food and water. This mineral helps strengthen the enamel on your teeth by replacing the nutrients that are lost over time, and is vital for keeping up with your dental health. Here are just a few reasons why it is beneficial:

• Fluoride treatments can prevent bacteria build-up around the gums
• Fluoride’s primary benefit is that it helps prevent tooth decay
• Disrupts acid production
• Fluoride helps greatly with patients who take certain medications that cause dry-mouth, which can make that patient more prone to decay
• For adult patients who often get restorative work such as crowns or bridges, fluoride can help protect the margins of these restorations and ultimately protect your investment
• Fluoride can also help with the growing problem of sensitive teeth

Fluoride is an extremely effective treatment we offer to our patients to keep their oral health in good standing, If you have any questions feel free to speak to your dental hygienist the next time you are in our office!