5 Benefits of Fluoride Treatments for Adults
Fluoride treatments are typically prescribed for children as a preventative measure against cavities. However, adults can also benefit from this simple procedure.
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening the enamel, and it has been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of cavities among seniors.
The American Dental Association recommends that adults get a fluoride treatment every 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on their current oral health and risk of developing cavities. Learn how you can benefit from regular fluoride treatments at Hinsdale Dental.
1. Improves Enamel Health
Fluoride treatments are an important part of maintaining oral health for adults. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and reverses early signs of enamel damage, such as pitting and shallow caries. When used in small amounts, fluoride supplements show 24% prevention of caries lesions in permanent teeth.
2. Remineralizes Teeth
When you eat and drink, the bacteria in your mouth feed off the sugars in what you consume and produce acid as a byproduct. This acid reacts with the calcium and phosphate in your tooth enamel, leading to erosion and cavities. Fluoride treatment can help regenerate the minerals lost from enamel. This keeps the teeth stronger and makes them less likely to develop cavities.
In addition, fluoride treatments help reduce the sensitivity of teeth exposed to acidic foods and drinks.
3. Saves Money on Costly Dental Treatments
By investing in affordable fluoride treatments now, you can benefit from lower dental bills later on. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, so you are less likely to need costly fillings, dental crowns, or root canals in the future.
4. Addresses the Effect of Dry Mouth
Aging and some health conditions, such as diabetes and autoimmune diseases, increase the risk of dry mouth. Some medications like antihistamines, SSRI and SNRI antidepressants, beta blockers for heart conditions, and diuretics can also lead to dry mouth.
Without adequate saliva, the mouth becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which can, in turn, lead to an increase in cavities and other dental problems. Fluoride treatments address the effects of dry mouth by minimizing the acid damage caused by bacteria.
5. Minimize the Need for Fluoridated Water
Fluoridated water is an effective way to reduce tooth decay. The ADA and CDC recommend that municipal water supplies contain trace amounts of fluoride to ensure healthy teeth. However, some adults may not tolerate the fluoride levels found in fluoridated water, or they may prefer the taste of bottled or filtered water that does not contain adequate fluoride levels.
Fluoride treatments can provide a safe and effective alternative. Fluoride treatments can help reduce the need for fluoridated water by providing the necessary levels of fluoride to protect against tooth decay.
Protect Your Smile with Hinsdale Dental
Fluoride treatment is a safe and effective way to prevent and control dental caries. At Hinsdale Dental, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible dental care, including fluoride treatments.
We offer a full range of dental services, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. To make an appointment, call us at (630) 323-5200.
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