You’ve probably heard that you need fluoride to develop and maintain healthy teeth and gums, but how exactly is it beneficial?
Fluoride treatments provided at our Vancouver, Washington dental office help prevent cavities.
When you consume foods and beverages (particularly those that are highly acidic), you introduce your mouth to harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay. However, regularly exposing your teeth to fluoride can make your teeth more resistant to the acid that is produced by this bacteria, ultimately helping to prevent tooth decay.
In the United States, fluoride has been introduced to our local water supply and many of the foods that we consume, helping to ensure that our teeth get the necessary exposure to fluoride. Also, the toothpaste and mouthwash that you are using likely also contain fluoride to help promote healthy teeth development. But, some people are more prone to developing tooth decay than others, which may mean that they require more fluoride than these traditional sources.
As your dentist in Vancouver WA, our team at Padden Dental offers in-office fluoride treatments to help keep your smile protected and maintained. This can be especially helpful if you are someone that has a tendency to get cavities. With an in-office fluoride treatment, the hygienist will apply the fluoride directly to your teeth and allow it to sit on your teeth for approximately 1 to 4 minutes. In some cases, your dentist may even prescribe supplements for you to take at home to keep your teeth protected.
It’s important to note that you need to be cautious with fluoride use for young children. Make sure to always supervise children when they are brushing their teeth so that they do not swallow it.
To learn more about our in-office fluoride treatments, contact Padden Dental, your dentist in Vancouver WA.