If your child has seen the dentist, they most likely had a fluoride treatment along with their semi-annual cleaning and exam. The quick, painless preventive measure is critical for preserving youthful smiles from tooth decay, but may fluoride treatments also benefit adults? Although you may feel they are solely for children, fluoride protection is available to anybody, regardless of age. With 26% of individuals in the United States having untreated tooth decay, this is a simple way to protect your smile as advised by a Sacramento dentist.
Adults can also benefit from fluoride treatments! We typically connect fluoride treatments with children. However, they are not the only ones who stand to gain. Adults, like children, may drink sugary or acidic beverages and snacks regularly, resulting in weaker enamel.
Benefits of fluoride treatment in adults:
Prevalence of Tooth Decay in Adults: Children are more likely to get cavities because they do not practice proper dental hygiene; nevertheless, adults are not immune to decay. At least 92% of individuals have had one or more cavities in their permanent teeth. Aside from the traditional offenders, such as sugary drinks and poor dental hygiene, the risk of decay might be increased by another factor you cannot avoid: age. Years of wear and tear will deplete your enamel. It will demineralize and weaken with time, becoming less resistant to germs that cause cavities.
Tooth Sensitivity: There are several reasons why your dentist may prescribe fluoride therapy. If you have a high cavity risk and/or sensitivity, eat a high sugar/acidic diet, do not receive regular dental care, use certain medications/have a dry mouth, or have active decay in your mouth, consult with your dental care team about utilizing fluoride to strengthen your enamel.
Comprehensive Preventive Care: Fluoride treatments should be considered part of a complete preventative care regimen. When paired with frequent dental check-ups, adequate oral hygiene, and a healthy diet, they improve your overall oral health.
Periodontal Health: Fluoride treatments are used not just to prevent cavities, but also for periodontal care. Gum disease is a major problem among adults since healthy teeth rely on strong gums for support. Fluoride combats gum disease by improving overall dental health.
Fluoride treatments at the dentist’s office are quite useful. These treatments have a higher concentration than store-bought items and can offer your tooth structure the essential boost of minerals to strengthen weaker regions and decrease. Discuss your specific requirements with your dentist to see if you may benefit from a fluoride treatment.