Fluoride is a safe, naturally occurring mineral found in many plants, soil, freshwater, and saltwater. Some areas of west Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and Mexico have high concentrations of naturally occurring fluoride in the drinking water. Fluoride is often added in optimal concentrations to drinking water, toothpaste, and mouth rinses to help prevent cavities.
Fluoride treatments can also be applied in-office as a sticky varnish that delivers higher concentrations of the cavity-fighting mineral. Fluoride varnishes can be used every 3 to 6 months and are especially beneficial for patients at high risk of developing new cavities.
Fluoride prevents cavities by helping to remineralize teeth that have been damaged by acid. Acid can come from food and drinks, as well as from the bacteria in our mouths. Our teeth go through multiple demineralization and remineralization cycles each day.
Community water fluoridation was first introduced to Grand Rapids, MI, in 1945. Since then, extensive research has been conducted on the safety and effectiveness of water fluoridation, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has deemed it one of the ten most significant public health achievements of the 20th century.
What Are Fluoride Treatments?
Fluoride helps prevent decay by remineralizing the enamel that covers your teeth. We use fluoride varnish, which provides greater protection than fluoride toothpaste alone. It can also improve sensitivity caused by gum recession.
We keep a variety of fluoride varnish flavors for both children and adults in our Humble, TX, dental office. Contact us by phone or request an appointment online for your next cleaning and exam.