Fluoride Treatment
Safeguard Your Smile
You diligently brush twice daily, floss consistently, and see your dentist biannually, but are you aware that incorporating fluoride—a natural mineral that combats cavities and tooth decay—into your routine can further fortify your dental health? Fluoride works to prevent cavities and decay by forming a protective layer on your teeth, inhibiting plaque buildup and hardening of the tooth surface. Fluoride is available in two forms: Systemic fluoride: Systemic fluoride is consumed, often through fluoridated public water. During tooth development beneath the gums, it reinforces enamel, enhancing resistance to cavities. Topical fluoride: Topical fluoride targets existing teeth to prevent caries (cavities) and is found in toothpaste, mouthwash, or professional fluoride treatments.
Getting a Fluoride Treatment at the Dentist
A fluoride application at your dentist’s office is quick, taking only a few minutes. Post-treatment, you may be advised to avoid rinsing, eating, or drinking for at least 30 minutes to allow fluoride absorption. Based on your oral health or your dentist’s guidance, treatments may be recommended every three, six, or 12 months. Your dentist might also suggest at-home fluoride products like mouthwash, gels, or antibacterial rinses.
Selecting the Best Fluoride Product
When picking an at-home fluoride product, such as toothpaste or mouthwash, look for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval, ensuring the product has been rigorously tested for safety and efficacy. Keep your smile radiant with fluoride treatments! Fluoride treatments are crucial for strengthening tooth enamel, particularly for children. They are also vital for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment and older adults with issues like reduced saliva flow, exposed root surfaces, or gum recession. At Friendly Dental of Somerset, we recommend children receive dental exams and fluoride treatments every six months to prevent cavities effectively.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings, favored for their aesthetic appeal, are often used instead of metal amalgam, especially where appearance matters. Some tooth-colored materials may even strengthen teeth compared to amalgam. Two main types are used: composite and ceramic.
Composite Restorations
Advancements in composite materials and bonding agents have made them a popular choice among dentists. Composites are versatile, used to close gaps, enhance tooth shape, size, or color, replace amalgam fillings, cover worn areas or stains, protect sensitive areas, and repair fractured teeth.
Placement Process
After removing decay and preparing the tooth, bonding agents are applied to enhance adhesion and protect the tooth. Composite material is added in layers, hardened with a curing light, contoured to fit the bite, and polished for a natural appearance. This process takes longer than silver fillings due to the multiple steps involved. Composite fillings may initially be sensitive to extreme temperatures and can discolor over time with smoking or frequent consumption of coffee, tea, or cola. They may also be worn faster than silver fillings and can be more costly, but they provide a more natural, aesthetically pleasing result.
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