Adult & Child Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water sources and is derived from fluorine, the 17^th most abundant element in the earth’s crust.

Fluoride is nature’s cavity fighter.  It prevents tooth decay by making the tooth structure stronger, so teeth are more resistant to tooth decaying bacteria (acid attacks) and reduces the chance of getting cavities. Fluoride has significant health benefits for children and adults.  Early studies have shown that fluoridated water reduced tooth decay in children as much as 60% and reduced adult tooth decay by 35%. Recent studies prove that fluoridated water continues to be effective and reduced tooth decay in children and adults by 20-40%.

Fluoride can benefit both children and adults

·      Prevents tooth decay

·      Strengthens tooth enamel

·      Remineralizes/repairs enamel that has been damaged by bacteria (acid attacks)

·      Reverses early decay

 Fluoride benefits people with these medical conditions and/or dental problems:

·      Dry mouth (xerostomia) caused by medication. Reduction of saliva flow increases the risk of tooth decay.

·      Effects of radiation therapy.  Radiation damages the salivary gland and reduces the production of saliva. This causes dry mouth and increases the risk of tooth decay.

·      Gum recession and exposure of the root of the tooth. The exposed root is more susceptible to root decay. Studies show that more than half of adults over age 75 have had root decay.

·      Recent tooth decay within the last year.  Bacteria in the mouth can lead to new cavities. Fluoride should be an important part of the daily oral health care regimen.

·      Teeth that have had Crown or bridge restorations are susceptible to tooth decay due to margin leakages.

·      Orthodontic treatment- orthodontic brackets on the enamel surfaces of the teeth make it challenging for people to maintain good oral hygiene. Teeth are susceptible to decalcification (early stage of tooth decay).

If one or more of these conditions applies to you, talk to your dentist to see whether you would benefit from a topical fluoride treatment.

Fluoride is obtained in two forms: Topical and systemic

Topical fluorides strengthen tooth enamel and teeth become more resistant to tooth decay.  Topic fluorides are toothpastes, mouth rinses and professionally applied fluorides.

  

·      Self –Applied

                      The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children over

                      the age of 2 and adults use fluoridated toothpaste to brush their teeth daily.

·      Professionally applied fluorides are in the form of a gel, foam or rinse.  They are applied by the dentist or dental hygienist in the dental office.

               Systemic fluorides are ingested into the body and become incorporated into

               forming tooth structures. Systemic fluorides are water fluoridation and dietary

               fluoride supplements.

·      Community water fluoridation

The American Dental Association, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry support community water fluoridation. It is safe and effective and it reduces tooth decay in children and adults.

·      Dietary fluoride supplements

                      Fluoride supplements are recommended only for children living in non-

                      fluoridated areas and at high risk of developing tooth decay.

Is fluoride safe?

Fluoride is safe when the right amount of it is used. Most children and adults get the right amount of fluoride through a combination of fluoridated water, fluoridated toothpaste and professionally applied fluoride in the dental office.

 For children under the age of six, too much fluoride can cause enamel fluorosis, a discoloration or mottling of the permanent teeth. Most cases are due to inappropriate use of fluoride-containing dental products, such as toothpastes and mouth rinses.

These are a few useful reminders:

·      Parents can brush babies’ teeth with an infant toothbrush, using water with just a smear of toothpaste until about age 2.

·      Children over the age of 2 should use fluoridated toothpaste that carries the ADA’s seal of acceptance.

·      Children under the age of 6 should be supervised when brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and be taught to spit and not swallow.

·      Children should use only a pea-size amount of toothpaste.

·      Children under age 6 should never use fluoride-containing mouth rinses.

Dr. Anna Lee’s dental office uses the latest technology to provide fluoride treatments that are quick, comfortable and effective. If you have any questions about fluoride treatments, please call Dr. Anna Lee at 626-335-5114 for a complimentary examination.  Or visit us at www.annaleedds.com