When you were younger, did you remember getting a fluoride treatment? It helps prevent cavities in children, but adults can benefit from it as well! Protecting your smile doesn’t have an age limit, especially when it comes to caring for your teeth in the long run. Keep reading to learn how fluoride can help you and why many adults still choose this treatment for themselves.
Why Are Fluoride Treatments Helpful?
Over time, your tooth enamel can start to wear down. It can happen naturally as you age, but acidic foods and poor oral hygiene can lead to it becoming weakened. This puts your teeth at a higher risk of cavities and sensitivity to hot and cold items.
Fluoride is important in dentistry in general because of its ability to remineralize enamel. The outer layer becomes stronger, making it more resistant to harmful bacteria. This is helpful for kids because their developing teeth have thinner enamel. However, many adults choose to get a fluoride treatment because their smiles could use that extra helpful boost.
How Can I Tell If I Need a Fluoride Treatment?
Even if you are diligent in your at-home dental routine, some people are more susceptible to oral health issues like cavities. Here are some reasons that your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment as an adult:
- Your Genetics: Your genes determine the thickness of your enamel. That means that you may naturally have a thinner outer layer, making tooth decay a bigger issue for you.
- Previous Dental Work: If you have a restoration like a bridge, crown, or filling, then you still have some of your home-grown teeth underneath them. They deserve to be protected, so fluoride can do just that by remineralization.
- Receding Gums: If you are experiencing this, then you may end up with exposed tooth roots. They are covered in a substance that isn’t as tough as enamel, so bacteria can more easily erode them and cause cavities. Going to your dentist can help give these areas the extra help they need to stay strong.
- Dry Mouth: Certain medications that you may take to handle conditions like high blood pressure, anxiety, or allergies can leave your mouth feeling dry. Even systemic diseases like diabetes reduce your ability to produce saliva. Without having a moist mouth, bacteria can linger and attack your oral structures.
As an adult, you may still benefit from a fluoride treatment. You deserve that boost to your oral health as much as anyone else. If your dentist recommends it, know that it can help ensure that your smile stays healthy.
About the Practice
At Atrium Family Dental of New Lenox, we want you to have a set of teeth that you know are strong. Our team of skilled dentists are here to help you when it’s time for your regular checkups and cleaning. If we find that your grin could use an extra boost, then we are proud to offer fluoride treatments for anyone who needs them. If you want to learn more about how this service could benefit you, schedule an appointment or call us at (815) 462-9990.