Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps rebuild tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay in children and adults. You can find it in many water sources, toothpaste and mouth rinses. Our Winnipeg water has fluoride added to it to help you and your family’s teeth. Typically, a regular toothpaste or mouthwash has the recommended amount of fluoride to keep cavities at bay. But, brushing your teeth may not be enough.
Fluoride treatments applied by a dentist are a great way to make up for a lack of fluoride. Studies have proven that everyone can benefit from extra fluoride to protect their teeth, and treatment from a dentist can help with that.
Fluoride Treatment Benefits
This article explains how fluoride repairs weakened tooth enamel by replenishing lost calcium and phosphate naturally present in the saliva. These minerals also make your teeth more resistant to future decay.
Professional fluoride treatments can benefit people with a high risk of decay or erosion. If you have dry mouth, weak enamel, poor oral health or dental crowns, ask your dentist if applying a fluoride varnish would boost your oral health.
Dental varnish applied by a dental professional is also safe to prevent cavities in children. Your dentist will only use a small amount of fluoride, and hardly any fluoride is swallowed.
What To Expect
The procedure only takes a few minutes to complete. During treatment, your dentist or dental hygienist will dry your teeth and either paint a fluoride gel on them with a swab or insert the gel or foam into a dental tray (it looks like a temporary mouthguard) which is placed in your mouth for less than four minutes. At Kildonan Crossing Dental Centre, we primarily use fluoride varnish and rinse rather than the trays of gel. We find it is more comfortable for our patients and works just as well.
Your dentist will advise you to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after the treatment so your teeth can absorb the fluoride. Depending on the condition of your teeth, your dentist may recommend regular fluoride treatments every six months to a year. If tooth decay persists in your mouth, they may recommend other preventative measures and provide dental tips to ensure your teeth remain bright and healthy.
This treatment can serve as an additional protective barrier against cavities. At Kildonan Crossing Dental Centre, we take care of all aspects of your oral hygiene, including fluoride treatments. Schedule an appointment with us today, and we’ll have you and your family smiling with confidence in no time! We’re located in Transcona, at the corner of Lagimodiere Boulevard and Regent Avenue.