Just a small amount of fluoride can help prevent cavities and even assist in repairing teeth that are at the very earliest stages of decay. While you can get fluoride from some water supplies and supplements, to optimize the effects, it is best to also have topical fluoride treatments.

Greenbelt Dental Associates topically administers professional fluoride treatments conveniently in Greenbelt, Maryland. It only takes a few minutes and can greatly help in combating tooth decay.

How does fluoride help my teeth?

When you are born, and your teeth have not yet emerged, fluoride from water, food, and supplements, strengthens your tooth enamel. This, in turn, makes it easier for your teeth to fight off decay. This is a systemic benefit of fluoride.

Once your teeth have emerged, fluoride helps remineralize tooth enamel that has weakened and reverses the very early stages of decay. Dental products that contain fluoride - like toothpaste or mouthwash - topically place fluoride directly on your teeth.

Foods and drinks containing fluoride also provide topical benefits to your teeth when consumed. With drinks, every sip covers your teeth with fluoride. During the chewing process of foods, fluoride mixes with your saliva and constantly coats your teeth.

Why should I get a professional fluoride treatment?

A professional fluoride treatment is a great way to help combat cavities. Some people are more susceptible to cavities and could really benefit from professional fluoride treatments. Cavities may be more common due to:

• Genetics
• Particular composition of teeth
• Daily activities
• Active cavities
• Drug abuse
• Overconsumption of alcohol
• Bad oral hygiene
• Bad oral hygiene
• Eating disorders
• Not going to the dentist regularly
• High levels of cavity-causing bacteria
• Fillings
• Head and neck radiation therapy
• Bad diet
• Tooth roots exposed
• Defects of tooth enamel
• Dry mouth

In the office, a foam, gel, solution, or varnish is applied directly to your teeth. This coat strengthens the teeth and protects them from further decay.

How do I take care of my teeth after a professional fluoride treatment?

• Home Care

  Even though a professional fluoride treatment helps protect your teeth from decay, you should continue to brush and floss as normal. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing. Using products that have the ADA Seal are favored since they meet the ADA’s effectiveness and safety criteria.

• Office

  Regular dental visits are also very important. Plaque needs to be professionally removed in a dental office to help stop tooth decay. Though the ADA suggests visiting the dentist twice a year, this may vary depending on your situation.

• Dietary Guidelines

  Eating a balanced diet and avoiding excessive amounts of sugary foods benefits your overall well-being, and, in turn, helps support good oral health. Eating fluoride-rich foods and drinks can work systemically hand in hand with topical professional fluoride treatments to keep cavities at bay.

Greenbelt Dental Associates can let you know if professional fluoride treatments are a good idea for you. The office is easy to get to from anywhere in Greenbelt, Beltsville, Lanham, Riverdale, Hyattsville, Glenn Dale, and the surrounding areas.

Let us help you do everything you can to stop tooth decay and keep your smile looking great!