Fluoride is a natural mineral that’s important for developing strong teeth and bones; as such, it’s essential for children, but adults can benefit from fluoride treatments in Houston as well.
What Fluoride Can Do
Fluoride is capable of providing you with a healthy mouth in the following ways:
Prevents Demineralization and Cavities
Regular use of fluoride can help prevent white spots from forming on your teeth. This condition is known as demineralization or decalcification and is the first sign of tooth decay. It’s very common for people who have braces to develop decalcification. If treated early, fluoride alone may possibly be strong enough to reverse these signs of the decay process, preventing cavities from forming and you need to have a tooth repaired.
Treatment for Sensitive Teeth
Since fluoride makes stronger teeth, this mineral is useful for people who often experience hypersensitivity either due to weak enamel, or gum recession.
Where to Find Fluoride
Fluoride is available in many different forms including:
Drinking water – Fluoride is so beneficial that many cities, including North Houston, add it to their municipal drinking water. This mineral can also be found in bottled water, just check the label to find out if it’s included in your favorite brand.
Dental Products – Fluoride can be found in your toothpaste, mouthwash, oral sprays, and even dental floss.
Chewing Gum and candies – For people who need extra fluoride throughout the day, many convenient products like chewing gum, lozenges, and candies can be used.
Professional treatments – Our North Houston dentist offers professional-strength fluoride treatments to our patients that can be done during your routine bi-annual cleaning appointments.
Avoiding Fluorosis in Children
Fluoride is safe in appropriate amounts, but you can have too much of a good thing. During the first eight years of life children’s permanent teeth are being formed. If overuse of fluoride occurs during this time, it’ll cause ‘paper white’ spots or lines to develop on the permanent teeth.
The most common cause of fluorosis is due to children swallowing things like fluoride supplements, drinking well water, or swallowing fluoride toothpaste, which is why it’s very important to supervise children while they brush their teeth. Only a pea-size amount of paste is needed to brush the entire mouth.
Insurance Payments for Professional Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are typically paid for by dental insurance companies up until your child reaches a certain age. However, most policies have yet to agree on payment toward adult fluoride treatments. This doesn’t mean that the benefits aren’t there. Adults need fluoride treatments just as much as children. Luckily, these procedures don’t cost very much and they’re definitely worth paying for out of pocket when it comes to preventing cavities.
Fluoride Treatments in Houston, Texas
To learn more about fluoride treatments and other ways that you can help maintain healthy teeth, come see our North Houston family dentist. We love educating our patients and being there for them throughout their oral health needs. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to meeting you and your family.
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