At the office of Park Slope Family Dentistry, our goal is to help our patients reduce their risk of tooth decay. We want you and every member of your family to enjoy the benefits of optimal oral health and a beautiful smile.
How the mineral Fluoride helps to protect your smile
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that's frequently added to tap water as well as found in some food sources. It's also an active ingredient in many kinds of toothpaste and mouth rinses. In terms of its value to oral health, fluoride serves to protect tooth enamel, from the corrosive effects of dental plaque, which is a sticky film that continuously accumulates in the mouth. As the harmful bacteria in dental plaque metabolize sugars, they produce acids that erode tooth enamel and cause the development of cavities. Fluoride benefits dental health by accelerating the re-mineralization and strengthening of dental enamel, to make the teeth more resistant to decay.
Supplemental Fluoride Treatments And Rinses
While children for reasons of diet and oral hygiene are considered to be at a higher risk for dental decay, periodic fluoride treatment, supplements and rinses are not just for kids! Some form of fluoride supplements may also be recommended for adults who are at a higher risk of developing cavities.
At Park Slope Family Dentistry, we provide fluoride treatments to address the needs of both children and adults. We offer supplemental fluoride treatments and fluoride mouth rinses as appropriate and needed. We’ll also recommend additional ways to maintain a healthy level of fluoride between dental visits. Because bottled water does not contain any fluoride, we may suggest alternative options in care.
