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 the toothpaste more effective at fighting cavities. Fluoride helps teeth by making them stronger and more resistant to the harmful acid that is formed by bacteria. Dr. David Montz 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 an easy and painless way to strengthen your teeth and maintain an attractive smile.
While many Montz and Maher Dental Group 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 cavities.
If you wonder if you or your child is getting enough fluoride, speak with Dr. Montz about fluoride supplements. Dr. Montz will let you know if they are needed 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 affects the amount of fluoride your children are receiving is where you get your drinking water. Your children may not need fluoride supplements if they drink tap water from a fluoridated Texas municipal water supply. If your family only drinks bottled water without fluoride, you may want to consider 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 Houston area do not contain fluoride.
If your child is getting adequate levels of fluoride but continues to get cavities, communicate with Dr. Montz about useful dental sealants. They have proven to be very effective at protecting the rear molars from cavities.
Dr. Montz is committed to preventative dentistry with essential twice-yearly exams and dental cleanings that may include a fluoride treatment. Call 832-895-5120 to book an exam and cleaning and be on your way to a healthy, pleasing smile!
Montz and Maher Dental Group are located at 820 S Friendswood Ste 100 in Friendswood. We provide unmatched dental care with a comprehensive menu of general and cosmetic dental procedures including sedation dentistry, CEREC dental crowns and sedation dentistry.
David Montz is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. You can learn more about American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry at http://www.aacd.com/.
Contact Montz and Maher Dental Group:
832-895-5120
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
820 S Friendswood Ste 100
Friendswood, Texas
77546
