Fluoride Treatments are Not Just For Kids | La Costa Dental Excellence

You rarely hear the word “toothpaste” without it being preceded by “fluoride.” “Fluoride toothpaste” is ubiquitous for good reason.

Fluoride is an important mineral that helps your teeth stay strong. It is found in some foods and water and makes toothpaste 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. Stephen and Kimberly Dankworth 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 maintain an attractive smile.

While many La Costa Dental Excellence 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, communicate with Doctor Dankworth about fluoride supplements. Doctor Dankworth will let you know if they are required 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 decay.

A factor that influences the amount of fluoride your kids are receiving is where you get your drinking water. Your children may not need fluoride supplements if they drink tap water from a fluoridated California 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 San Marcos area do not contain fluoride.

If your child is getting adequate levels of fluoride but continues to get cavities, talk to Doctor Dankworth about useful dental sealants. They have proven to be very effective at protecting the rear molars from tooth decay.

Dr. Dankworth is dedicated to preventative dentistry with important twice-yearly exams and dental cleanings that may include a fluoride treatment. Call 760-633-3033 to book an exam and cleaning and be on your way to a healthy, attractive smile!

La Costa Dental Excellence is located at 7730 Rancho Santa Fe Rd Ste 106 in Carlsbad. We provide premium dental care with a comprehensive menu of general and cosmetic dental services including Invisalign, implant supported dentures and Invisalign.

Stephen and Kimberly Dankworth is a member of the American Dental Association. You can learn more about American Dental Association at http://www.ada.org/.