You rarely hear the word “toothpaste” without it being preceded by “fluoride.” “Fluoride toothpaste” is ubiquitous for good reason.
Fluoride is a key mineral that helps your teeth stay strong. It is found in some foods and water and makes toothpastes more effective at fighting cavities. Fluoride helps teeth by making them stronger and more resistant to the dangerous acid that is formed by bacteria. Dr. Justin Johnson may recommend a fluoride treatment in addition to your dental cleaning.
The fluoride used in in-office treatments comes in either a gel or foam, and may be available in several flavors. The fluoride is applied directly to teeth through the use of a plastic dental tray that fits over your teeth. The tray is kept in your mouth for just a few minutes. Fluoride treatments are a straightforward and painless way to strengthen your teeth and keep an attractive smile.
While many Jefferson City Dental Care patients understand the importance of fluoride treatments in fortifying developing teeth in children, some do not realize the importance of fluoride for adults. For this reason, fluoride treatments are sometimes recommended to adults who are susceptible to enamel wear or tooth decay.
If you wonder if you or your child is getting enough fluoride, talk to Dr. Johnson about fluoride supplements. Dr. Johnson will let you know if they are needed and determine the precise supplement dosage. Don’t give your child fluoride supplements without your dentist’s counsel. Too much fluoride can lead to fluorosis which discolors teeth and, ironically, can make teeth more susceptible to cavities.
A factor that impacts the amount of fluoride your children are receiving is where you get your drinking water. Your children may not need fluoride supplements if they drink tap water from a fluoridated Missouri municipal water supply. If your family only drinks bottled water without fluoride, you may want to think about supplementation. Keep in mind that the FDA does not require bottled water companies to list the fluoride content on the bottle label and many brands sold in the Jefferson City area do not contain fluoride.
If your child is getting adequate levels of fluoride but continues to get cavities, talk to Dr. Johnson about useful dental sealants. They have proven to be very effective at protecting the rear molars from cavities.
Dr. Johnson is dedicated to preventative dentistry with critical twice-yearly exams and dental cleanings that may include a fluoride treatment. Call 573-634-2400 to book an exam and cleaning and be on your way to a healthy, pleasing smile!
Jefferson City Dental Care is located at 3551 Amazonas Dr in Jefferson City. We provide exceptional dental care with a comprehensive menu of general and cosmetic dental care including porcelain veneers, and dental implants.
Justin Johnson is a member of the American Dental Association. You can learn more about American Dental Association at http://www.ada.org/.
Contact Jefferson City Dental Care:
573-634-2400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3551 Amazonas Dr
Jefferson City, Missouri
65109
