How Fluoride Protects Teeth
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel. It supports remineralization, the process by which minerals are restored to enamel weakened by acids, and it makes enamel more resistant to future acid attacks. It can even help halt very early decay before a cavity forms.
Sources of Fluoride
Many people receive fluoride from community drinking water and fluoride toothpaste. Some mouth rinses also contain fluoride. For children, the amount of toothpaste should be matched to their age, typically a rice-grain-sized smear for very young children and a pea-sized amount from around age three, with supervision so it is not swallowed.
Professional Fluoride Treatments
In the office, fluoride is usually applied as a varnish painted onto the teeth or as a gel or foam. The application takes only a few minutes, and you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a short time afterward so it can be absorbed.
Professional fluoride may be especially helpful for children, people with a history of frequent cavities, those with dry mouth, orthodontic patients, and adults with exposed root surfaces. Your dentist can help you decide whether it would benefit you.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for a professional examination. For advice about your own smile, please call us at (561) 235-5424.