Fluoride Treatment: What You Need to Know
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in many foods and water sources. It is also added to toothpaste, mouthwash, and other dental products.
Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities by making them more resistant to acids.
Benefits of Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment has many benefits, including:
- Strengthens teeth
- Prevents cavities
- Reduces the risk of tooth decay
- Improves oral health
Fluoride Treatment Options
There are several different ways to get fluoride treatment, including:
- Fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste is the most common way to get fluoride treatment.
- Fluoride mouthwash: Fluoride mouthwash can help to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
- Fluoride gel: Fluoride gel is a stronger form of fluoride treatment that can be applied to the teeth by a dentist.
- Fluoride varnish: Fluoride varnish is a thin coating that is applied to the teeth by a dentist.
Fluoride Treatment for Children
Fluoride treatment is especially important for children because their teeth are still developing.
Children can get fluoride treatment from toothpaste, mouthwash, and fluoride supplements.
Fluoride supplements are available in the form of drops, tablets, and chewable gummies.
Fluoride Treatment for Adults
Adults can also benefit from fluoride treatment.
Adults can get fluoride treatment from toothpaste, mouthwash, and fluoride gel.
Fluoride gel is a stronger form of fluoride treatment that can be applied to the teeth by a dentist.
Fluoride Treatment Safety
Fluoride treatment is safe and effective when used as directed.
However, too much fluoride can cause fluorosis, a condition that can cause white spots or streaks on the teeth.
The recommended daily intake of fluoride for adults is 4 milligrams.
Fluoride Treatment: The Bottom Line
Fluoride treatment is an important part of a healthy oral hygiene routine.
Fluoride treatment can help to strengthen teeth, prevent cavities, and improve oral health.
Talk to your dentist about the best way to get fluoride treatment.