Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is one of the most abundant and beneficial naturally occurring minerals—and it’s been a highly regarded ingredient in oral health treatment for decades. Knoxville dentist Dr. Z of Pristine Smiles recommends inexpensive fluoride treatment for patients of all ages at high risk for cavities.
Is fluoride dangerous?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), there’s plenty of misinformation about fluoride in the media. Some worry that fluoride in water or toothpaste is toxic, but current studies dispute this claim. (Plus, the toxicity is related to large doses, not daily exposure.)
On the other hand, there are plenty of science-based facts available too. Because of its monumental role in cavity prevention, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes that community water fluoridation is 1 of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.
One mildly adverse effect of fluoride overexposure that impacts 1 in 4 Americans is fluorosis. While fluorosis is not a disease, it is a cosmetic condition that mildly discolors enamel with lacy white markings, dark staining, or surface irregularities. Still, this is a cosmetic issue that can be easily corrected with cosmetic dental procedures, like porcelain veneers.
Procedure Expectations
Professional fluoride treatments have way more fluoride than what’s in drinking water or anti-cavity toothpaste. Dr. Z provides effective yet gentle fluoride treatments using highly concentrated foams, gels, and varnishes. After prophylaxis (dental cleaning), a Pristine Smiles team member can topically apply the treatment and allow it to dry. This process only takes a few minutes, but we ask you to avoid drinking and eating for at least 30 minutes afterward. This extra step allows the fluoride to absorb and work well fully.
Treatment Maintenance
Depending on your oral health, fluoride treatments might be suggested every 3, 6, or 12 months. Furthermore, if you’re at high risk for cavities, Dr. Z might prescribe a fluoride rinse or gel as part of your at-home oral healthcare routine.
Are fluoride treatments right for me?
Prevention is the cornerstone of family dentistry. Studies confirm that fluoride can reduce tooth decay by at least 25% in adults and children. Fluoride treatments work by restoring minerals to tooth enamel where harmful bacteria potentially accumulate and break down dental surfaces. While fluoride cannot remove onset decay, it can strengthen the surface of the teeth and prevent deep cavities (which require extensive, restorative repair).
Though fluoride is abundant and found in water, foods cooked and water, and fish with bones, Dr. Z might suggest fluoride treatment for the following conditions:
- Â Â Â Â Poor oral hygiene
- Â Â Â Â Poor diet
- Â Â Â Â Excessive alcohol or drug use
- Â Â Â Â Eating disorders
- Â Â Â Â Decreased saliva
- Â Â Â Â Weakened enamel
Add-on Anti-Cavity Fluoride Treatment to Your Next Dental Cleaning
Dental needs are often overlooked, but Dr. Z and her Pristine Smiles team elevate basic dental cleanings by providing optional (yet affordable) preventive treatments, like fluoride treatment. Take your first step to better dental health by scheduling a simple fluoride treatment in Knoxville, TN. Call (865) 693-9474 or message us online.
