Fluoride Treatment in Cary, NC
Fluoride treatment is an essential part of having strong, healthy teeth. It’s naturally found in all water sources and is present in small amounts in certain foods, as well as in prescription and non-prescription fluoride supplements like toothpaste and mouthwashes. When put in contact with your teeth, fluoride is absorbed by the enamel.
Fluoride helps to repair the enamel by replenishing lost phosphorous and calcium, keeping the teeth strong and resilient. Regular exposure to fluoride greatly reduces your risk of tooth decay and cavities. Fluoride also plays a role in remineralization to help reverse the effects of tooth decay for a brighter, whiter smile.
Topical Fluoride Treatment
Sources of topical fluoride are applied directly to and absorbed by the surfaces of the teeth. You can find topical fluoride in a variety of personal hygiene products, such as toothpaste, mouthwashes, and gels. Prescription products from your dentist are also available and contain higher concentrations of fluoride. It’s recommended that children undergo topical fluoride treatments at least twice a year to strengthen the teeth and lower the risk of cavities.
Systemic Fluoride
Systemic fluoride has the ability to strengthen teeth that have already erupted, as well as teeth still developing under the gum line. This type of fluoride is essential for both adults and children as it helps prevent cavities caused by poor oral hygiene habits, deep pits and fissures, frequent sugar intake, and various other causes. Systemic fluoride is gained from certain foods, as well as community water supplies. It can also be found in drop or gel supplements prescribed by Dr. Qureshy.
Fluoride Benefits
Fluoride offers a number of oral health benefits. It not only helps prevent tooth decay, it also repairs erosion on the teeth caused by repeated chewing and grinding motions when eating. Fluoride can also help reduce hypersensitivity which causes sensitive teeth. When used early on, fluoride treatments performed by Dr. Qureshy have the ability to reverse early tooth decay. For children who are younger than age six, fluoride plays a crucial role in the development of permanent teeth.
Tooth decay remains one of the most common preventable conditions in children. It can also be beneficial in adults who suffer from chronic cavities. Fluoride treatments like varnish are safe and effective if applied by an experienced dental professional. Varnish is applied and hardens quickly, making it a convenient solution for dental patients of all ages. To learn more about fluoride treatments or to schedule a fluoride appointment, contact Dr. Qureshy today.