Your tooth’s enamel is made up of many different minerals that help it to stay strong. Fluoride is one of those minerals. Every single day, the composition of your teeth are changing ever so slightly through the processes of mineralization and demineralization. Demineralization occurs when your tooth’s enamel is eroded and destroyed by acids. Mineralization occurs when you consume foods or liquids that contain minerals that make up your tooth enamel. Over time, without any consumption or application of fluoride to the teeth, they may become weaker and more susceptible to cavities.
You might be surprised to hear this: Fluoride is found naturally in many foods and even water, but at very low levels that are not sufficient to resist the damage caused by plaque alone.
When fluoride comes into contact with your teeth, it mineralizes them, causing the enamel to strengthen and defend itself against the damage caused by acid erosion, cavities, plaque, and sugar.
First of all, you should make sure that your toothpaste contains fluoride and brush at least twice a day. You can also find fluoridated mouthwashes and use them to rinse your mouth after meals. This will protect you from cavities and mineralize your tooth enamel.
Considering professional fluoride treatments in Katy? Fluoride treatment can also be administered by your dentist as a way to quickly repair and remineralize your tooth enamel. Your dentist applies fluoride in much stronger doses in the form of a varnish, gel, or foam. This procedure is effective, easy, relatively quick, and brings many benefits to your oral health.
Fluoride varnish is painted on to the teeth; a fluoride foam is applied through the use of a mouthguard, and gel can either be painted on or applied through a mouthguard. Each of the ways fluoride can be administered by your dentist is all effective.
If you want a healthier smile and stronger teeth, visit us at the Katy Smiles Center in Katy, TX for a fluoride treatment today!