Fluoride Treatment: One of the Keys to Cavity Prevention

Fluoride treatment helps protect teeth from decay by strengthening the enamel through remineralization. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in various foods and water. At Windermere Dental Group in Orlando, FL, Dr. Susana Moncada treats patients of all ages and can begin protecting young patients' smiles with fluoride treatments. Professional fluoride treatments can help reverse the early stages of decay by fighting plaque bacteria. 

The Benefits of Fluoride

Minerals are exchanged to and from the tooth’s enamel daily through the processes of demineralization and remineralization. Demineralization occurs when acids damage the enamel and minerals are lost. Through exposure to everyday sources such as toothpaste, tap water, and some foods, minerals like fluoride, calcium, and phosphate are returned to the enamel in remineralization.

If the mineralization process is not balanced and too many minerals are lost without being replaced, this can result in damaged enamel and decayed teeth. Fluoride is especially important for the development of permanent teeth in children younger than six years old, as this substance helps protect teeth from demineralizing acids. For adults, fluoride is helpful since it expedites the remineralization process and halts the production of acid. 

Prevent Tooth Decay with Professional Fluoride Treatments

It is important to make regular professional fluoride treatments a priority. With quick, convenient appointments, our team will make this process easy for you and your family. If you would like more information or want to schedule your routine checkup, call Windermere Dental Group today at 407-294-1132 or contact us online anytime. 

Topical vs. Systemic Fluoride

To maintain a healthy smile, it is important to include both topical and systemic fluoride in your oral care regimen. Topical fluorides like toothpastes, mouthwashes, and professional applications are applied directly on the enamel. This kind of fluoride strengthens teeth and helps them resist decay.

Fluoride exposure is also available through systemic sources like those found in water and some foods. Community water fluoridation is a source of systemic fluoride. Systemic fluoride can double as topical protection when fluoride is present in saliva, constantly surrounding teeth. While everyday supplies of fluoride can help prevent demineralization, professional applications provide even greater protection.

Professional Fluoride Treatments: Simple and Convenient

When it comes to dental procedures, professional fluoride applications are among the easiest and most straightforward. The substances used during professional treatments have a much higher concentration than the fluoride toothpastes or mouthwashes one might purchase at the store. Quick and easy, a professional fluoride treatment takes only a few minutes, and comes in different forms, such as solutions, gels, foams, or varnishes.

The fluoride can be applied with various methods, including with a cotton swab or brush. It can also be used as a rinse or situated in a tray that remains in the mouth for a few minutes. After our hygienists apply the fluoride, patients will need to avoid rinsing, eating, or drinking for about 30 minutes, so that the treatment can take full effect.

With quick, convenient appointments, our team will make fluoride treatments easy for you and your family.

The frequency of professional fluoride treatments will depend on each patient’s dental health, but a fluoride treatment may be recommended every three, six, or 12 months. Dr. Moncada might also suggest additional methods of preventing cavities, such as over-the-counter or prescription fluoride mouthwashes or gels.