Fluoride is a mineral that can greatly benefit your dental health. Fluoride is nature’s cavity fighter, as it helps prevent cavities in patients by strengthening the tooth enamel from acid attacks. It can also reverse early tooth decay.
Where Can Fluoride Be Found?
This mineral naturally occurs in many foods and in water. Dental fluoride can be applied to the teeth in several ways. Many toothpastes and mouthwashes contain fluoride to better protect your teeth. You can buy mouthwashes that have lower strengths of fluoride over the counter. However, if you want a mouthwash with a higher concentration, you must get a prescription from our dentists. Dr. Timmons and Dr. Carlson can also apply fluoride when you visit us for your routine dental appointment. At a dental office, dental fluoride can be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish. Fluoride treatments at a dental office have a much higher concentration of fluoride than what is found in toothpastes and mouthwashes. If a varnish is used, it is painted onto the teeth. Foams are applied to the teeth for one to four minutes using a mouth guard. Gels can be either applied with a mouth guard or painted on.
Who Should Use Dental Fluoride?
Both children and adults can benefit from dental fluoride. Fluoride intake is the most crucial between 6 months and 16 years old. During these ages, the primary and permanent teeth grow in and fluoride can strengthen the developing teeth. In adults, fluoride is an important aspect of fighting tooth decay.
For more information about dental fluoride in Baxter, Minnesota, and to schedule an appointment with our dentists, we welcome you to contact Baxter Dental today. We are thrilled to serve you and your smile!