Fluoride: The Greatest Breakthrough
in Preventive Dentistry
The greatest breakthrough in preventive dentistry in the last fifty years
has been the use of fluoride.
Almost all water naturally contains some fluoride. About three-fourths of
American cities add additional fluoride to the water supply for the prevention
of tooth decay. Fluoridated water alone has decreased the cavity rate for
school children by 60 percent.
There are many benefits in the use of fluoride, for people of all ages. When
children are young and their teeth are forming, fluoride joins with the enamel
surface and makes it harder and more decay-resistant.
The benefits for adults are just as great. Fluoride can help repair an
early cavity, even before it's become visible in the mouth, by rebuilding
the enamel layer of the teeth.
Fluoride is also helpful in older adults to help solve the problem of root caries or root sensitivity. And fluoride rinses or gels are sometimes prescribed to help eliminate germs that cause gum disease.
Most Houston dentists recommend fluoride toothpaste for all dental patients.
Our preventive dentist may also recommend additional sources of fluoride
for increased protection. This includes:
- drops
- tablets
- gels or rinses
- prescription toothpaste
Another highly effective time for fluoride application is immediately following
your cleaning in the dental office. A topical gel is applied with the use
of a tray or with a cotton applicator.
Fluoride is an important part of every tooth decay prevention program. When
combined with the good hygiene habits of brushing and flossing, the number of
cavities in children and adults can be dramatically reduced.
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