Treating oral health problems before they progress and become more complicated, painful, and expensive is an important part of maintaining a healthy smile for a lifetime, but it’s better still to prevent dental diseases from occurring in the first place whenever possible. While you may not realize it, there are an array of treatments and procedures that your dentist can provide to help your mouth combat dental issues at the source, including professional fluoride treatments. If you are at risk of developing tooth decay due to poor eating habits, gum disease, dry mouth, or dental appliances, such as a crown, fluoride could benefit your long-term oral health. Here’s what you should know about how fluoride varnish treatments before scheduling your next appointment at Walnut Creek Dental in Groveport, OH.
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Fluoride is a natural mineral that builds strong teeth and prevents cavities. Fluoride treatments provided in a dental setting is a preventative procedure that assists your mouth in naturally fighting off decay. This is because our mouths are in a constant struggle between demineralization and remineralization. During demineralization, acid caused from bacteria weakens the enamel of your teeth over time, which puts them at risk of developing cavities. At the same time, the minerals in your saliva are striving to strengthen the enamel of your teeth through remineralization. Fluoride can help during the remineralization process, ultimately preventing cavities from forming.
Undergoing professional treatment has many benefits, including:
Cavities may not seem like a significant oral health concern, but when left untreated they can lead to serious problems, such as infection, periodontal disease, and tooth loss. Fortunately, treatments are a fast, pain-free way to invest in your oral and overall health.
Fluoride does two things. Its restores minerals to the surface of teeth where bacteria may have eroded the enamel. It can also help to inhibit oral bacterial growth to further prevent cavities.
While cavities are often associated with children, they can happen to anyone. For this reason, fluoride treatments can benefit people of all ages, especially those at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, including seniors and people with special needs. When used by a professional dentist, treatments are completely safe and virtually pain-free.
You also have a role to play in keeping your teeth in top shape. While it’s highly recommended to come in for regular dental check-ups and screenings, the following are simple home dental practices that you need to do:
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a professional fluoride treatment at your dentist’s office for nearly everyone. Depending on your oral health the frequency could be every 3, 6, or 12 months. If you’re at high risk for cavities, your dentist may also prescribe a special fluoride rinse or gel to use regularly at home.
Fluoride treatment cost is usually covered by most dental plans, and in situations where it is not, most people find it quite affordable. Contact our office and we will be happy to help you understand the cost of your dental treatment.
We know that most people don’t look forward to going to the dentist. That’s why at Walnut Creek Dental, our experienced dental team is eager to provide the best in friendly, convenient, professional care. Let us keep everyone in your family smiling bright for years to come with our progressive preventative dental care, including fluoride. You’ll be so happy you took the important step of protecting the health and beauty of your smile with a professional fluoride treatment. Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment!
Call 614-864-2466 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.
