Fluoride Varnish
At Lindsey A. Robinson DDS Pediatric and Endodontic Dentistry, we are passionate about the health of your teeth, which is why we put so much effort into patient education and preventive dentistry. Fluoride is a fantastic, naturally occurring mineral that can strengthen the enamel on your teeth. Enamel makes up the outer, protective layer of your teeth and it does not regenerate, so once you lose it, it’s gone. For this reason, we offer a few different fluoride treatments, one of which is a fluoride varnish.
What is fluoride?
As mentioned above, fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that miraculously helps to strengthen and protect the outermost layer of your teeth, enamel. Because the enamel on your teeth is the only protection they have against cavities, it is important to do everything in your power to protect your enamel. Fluoride helps to remineralize the enamel on your teeth and can bolster places on your teeth where the enamel has worn thin.
The only time fluoride cannot benefit your smile is when the enamel has worn completely off of your teeth, so make sure to protect it while you can!
Fluoride Varnish
While the stereotypical fluoride treatment is a rinse that you swish in your mouth for a minute or two, a much more effective fluoride treatment is the fluoride varnish. The varnish is applied to dry, clean teeth and dries almost immediately. Typically, fluoride varnishes are applied twice yearly and work to repair the gaps in tooth enamel. The procedure is quick, usually covered by dental insurance, and is totally painless.
Who can benefit the most from fluoride?
While everyone can benefit from fluoride, there are those who are at high risk of developing cavities, and they stand to benefit the most from frequent fluoride treatments. As soon as baby teeth erupt from your kid’s mouth, it is recommended that they start having fluoride treatment. Several studies have confirmed that children have a propensity to enjoy sweet tasting foods more than adults. They also tend to be able to withstand much higher levels of sweetness, and are at a much higher risk of developing cavities because of their “sweet tooths”.
While children stand to benefit the most from fluoride because of their propensity for sweets, there is still plenty of benefits to be had by the adult who seeks out fluoride treatments. You only get one set of permanent teeth; you might as well protect them to last as long as possible.
What To Do For The Teen Years
Fluoride treatments can continue into adulthood as they are always helpful in the fight against cavities. Something that many people choose to do once they have their adult molars in is to have dental sealants placed. Dental sealants are clear and painted onto the chewing surface of molars. Dental sealants act as a shield, or barrier between your teeth and plaque. Sealants can last years and protect one of the most cavity-prone areas of your teeth from decay.
Easy and Important
Fluoride varnish is easy and quick, so call our office today at (530) 272-5522 to schedule your appointment.