Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a mineral that is found naturally in many things we eat or drink. It is nature’s way of helping to prevent cavities, and it plays an important role in helping you keep your teeth for a lifetime. Professional (in-office) fluoride treatments make teeth stronger and even reverse damage from decay in the outer layers of enamel on the smooth surfaces of the teeth. Additional home fluoride treatments assist in this process. In the lifelong fight against cavities, Dr. Rutledge believes that both adults and children benefit from both in-office treatment and home fluorides.
The benefits of fluoride include:
- Strengthening teeth
- Remineralizing weakened areas on teeth
- Desensitizing teeth
- Expanding some antimicrobial effects
- Increasing salivary action
- Enhancing rate of natural remineralization
“What I like the most about Springcrest is the work they do and the friendliness of the people. They have done a very good job on the dental work I needed and kept it really pain free.”
• Amanda T.
Home-Care or Co-Therapy
It will be important for you to work with your dental hygienist in order to achieve the healthiest mouth possible. This will mean working together through homecare or co-therapy to keep your teeth for your lifetime. It is a commitment from you, to do your best at home and a commitment from your hygienist to provide the best treatment possible during your hygiene appointments.
Mouth and Body Connection:
The Relationship between Heart Disease/Stroke and the Health of your Mouth
Did you know there is a link between your oral health and cardiovascular disease? New research shows that certain people may be predisposed to periodontal disease. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease is the same bacteria associated with heart disease. These bacteria cause plaque and tartar (soft and hard deposits) around teeth and in arteries. Take time at your next appointment to talk to the Springcrest Dental Associates team about the connection between your mouth’s health and your body’s health.
Do you have any of the following?
- Personal or family history of periodontal/gum disease
- Bleeding or irritated gums
- Heavy plaque (soft deposits) or tartar buildup (hard deposits)
- Inflammation (swelling and redness) of the gums surrounding your teeth
- Personal or family history of cardiovascular disease
- Diagnosis of periodontal disease
Q: How does fluoride help my teeth?
A: Research shows that fluoride reduces cavities in both children and adults by halting tooth decay. It also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before the decay becomes visible. Interestingly, many people continue to be misinformed about fluoride and fluoridation. Fluoride is a safe chemical component when used correctly. When your dentist applies fluoride to your teeth, usually in the form of a fluoride varnish, gel, or foam, that fluoride is more concentrated than the fluoride contained in toothpaste or mouthwash. The ADA recommends that dental professionals use any of the professional strength, fluoride varnish, gel or foam products carrying the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Ask a question. Request an appointment.
