Apart from your dental cleaning and examination, your dentist might suggest a fluoride treatment during your twice-yearly routine dental appointment. But why are fluoride treatments important?

In this blog post, we’ll cover what a fluoride treatment entails, and why you shouldn’t turn down the opportunity to get one during your next dental appointment.

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is the iodized version of the mineral fluorine, which naturally occurs in the earth. It is one of the most effective remineralizers, meaning it can actually build teeth and bones back up organically after they lose minerals. Because of this, fluoride is added to tap water in the U.S. and in toothpastes to help keep teeth strong and healthy and prevent cavities and decay.

What Is a Fluoride Treatment?

During your dental appointment, your dentist will apply a fluoride solution directly to your teeth in the form of a varnish, foam, or gel. It only takes a couple of minutes for the solution to bond to and set on your teeth, so you are free to eat and drink soon afterwards!

Why Would I Need a Fluoride Treatment?

Even if you get fluoride from drinking tap water or twice daily brushing and flossing, your other daily habits can influence the efficacy of the fluoride from these sources. For example, your diet, whether or not you smoke, or taking certain medications can increase your chances of developing plaque and decay. Having a fluoride treatment can give you an extra boost of protection against the daily wear and tear our teeth go through. Best of all, fluoride treatments are safe for patients of all ages!

Affordable Preventative Dentistry in San Marcos, CA

If you are due for a dental appointment, we’d love to help you at Mission Hills Family Dental! Fluoride treatments are one of the most affordable preventative treatments, and our flexible financing options can help make your appointment with us even more budget friendly. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!