Fluoride Treatment
Corinth, TX
Bacteria-produced acids, which accumulate due to poor oral hygiene, break down enamel. This allows the bacteria to penetrate deeper into the tooth, increasing the risk of dental decay. Fluoride treatment prevents decay by strengthening the enamel.
Loretto Family Dentistry pays the utmost attention to detail when administering fluoride treatments, ensuring all your teeth are well protected against the likelihood of cavities.
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral, boasted for its effectiveness and benefits for oral health. It is found to prevent tooth decay, cavities, caries, etc. as it helps rebuild enamel.
Human beings consume fluoride systemically and topically. Systemic fluoride consumption refers to ingested fluoride through fluoridated water or supplements.
Topical fluoride is applied on the teeth via toothpaste, mouthwash, rinses, and dental cleanings.
Fluoride and Dental Health
The enamel layer of our teeth is naturally strong and meant to protect the tissues and nerves within the tooth. Poor dental hygiene leads to bacteria accumulating on the enamel layer and forms plaque.
Over time, plaque produces an acid that eats away at the enamel layer or gum tissue. Without treatment, it penetrates the layer, leaving way for bacteria to infect the nerves and tissue inside the tooth.
Kristina Mackie, DDS provides fluoride treatment for both adults and children. It is a part of Loretto Family Dentistry's services, protecting teeth and treating enamel damage.
Fluoride Treatment for Kids
Dentistry for kids emphasizes fluoride treatment as kids have a higher likelihood of developing cavities. Kids tend to consume more sugars, which causes plaque and, eventually, cavities. Professionally applied fluoride treatments for kids makes their teeth more resistant to future decay.
The treatments are safe for children and use a small amount of fluoride. Parents or guardians need to ensure that children under the age of 2 years should not overuse fluoride, especially if they are getting treatments once a year.
What are the Treatments Like?
Fluoride treatments are quick outpatient procedures. Dentists use a highly-concentrated form of fluoride gel with a swab, in a tray, or with a brush. It takes a few minutes to apply. You may be asked to avoid eating and drinking for at least 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to seep in and work.
During this time, the remineralization process begins, strengthening the enamel layer.
Kristina Mackie, DDS makes sure that each tooth is covered properly, reversing decay and protecting your teeth effectively.
Who needs Fluoride Treatments?
The American Dental Association (ADA), in-office fluoride treatment twice a year or every six months during routine dental exams. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent treatments if you are at high risk for developing cavities.
Some of the factors that may contribute to that include:
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Regular sugar consumption
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Excessive alcohol consumption
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Drug abuse and smoking
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Poor or lack of dental hygiene
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Dry mouth or low saliva production. |
Here at Loretto Family Dentistry, we will assess your dental health and take your dental history to determine the best possible fluoride treatment for preventing or reversing enamel damage.
Call us at (940) 287-3535 today to schedule an appointment with Kristina Mackie, DDS and Dr. Mackie.
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