Fluoride treatment for teeth is an effective method of preventing and stopping the development of tooth decay. Fluoridation is remineralizing tooth enamel to protect against pathogenic microorganisms and acids. Like all procedures, it has indications and contraindications.
Pros and Cons of Fluoride Treatment
Benefits of remineralization:
- Decreased sensitivity due to the strengthening of enamel
- The risk of tooth decay is significantly reduced
- Decreased leaching of calcium from tissues
- Better resistance to acids
- Slower plaque formation
- Reduced risk of gum disease
- Installed fillings last longer
The safety of the procedure – it can be carried out from the moment of the eruption of the first tooth
The drawbacks are:
- An excess of fluoride in the enamel can lead to its destruction and unaesthetic look
- Some patients have an intolerance to fluoride
It is important to avoid the combination of the remineralization procedure and the simultaneous daily use of fluoride-containing hygienic paste.
Pediatric dentists recommend fluoridation as an excellent prevention of tooth decay in baby teeth.
Fluoridation for the Mother During Pregnancy and Lactation
During gestation and breastfeeding, a woman's body is deficient in trace elements; the tissues of the teeth weaken and can be destroyed.
If necessary, in order to maintain health, it is better to add special preparations to water or milk during these periods. This is called endogenous fluoridation.
In an acute case (excluding the first trimester of pregnancy), it is possible to carry out remineralization by applying the drug to the enamel.
Before fluoridation, you must consult with the doctor leading the baby and the dentist. The fluoridation procedure should only be carried out by an experienced dentist.
Conventional (Simple) Fluoridation
Conventional fluoride treatment means applying a gel or varnish that strengthens the surface layers of the enamel. Depending on the condition of the enamel and the selected preparation, several procedures may be required. Simple fluoridation does not penetrate deep layers and cannot protect if tooth decay has already developed.
Deep Fluoridation
With deep fluoridation, a special enamel with a high content of ionized fluorine penetrates the tissues and strengthens the tooth from the inside. A protective film is formed on top, and the tooth is sealed.
Such remineralization is effectively used for tooth decay of baby teeth, both at the beginning of the disease and with lesions deep into the dentin. This allows you to stop the destruction and save the teeth until permanent ones replace them.
How is the Fluoride Treatment Procedure Performed?
Stages of fluoridation:
- Thorough professional cleaning of teeth from already formed plaque and calculus. The surface is dried. This is necessary for good contact of the drug with the enamel.
- A remineralizing gel (varnish) or enamel is applied evenly on the enamel surface from all sides.
- After exposure (the time depends on the selected preparation), the fluoride-containing liquid is dried.
- The mouth is rinsed.
The technique is not complicated, but the end result directly depends on the correctness of its implementation.
Fluoridation of Baby Teeth in Case of Tooth Decay
Unfortunately, with tooth decay, remineralization alone is not enough –it may be too late. However, as a healing pad for fillings (prevention from the inside) and effective prevention of the spread of the disease further, the method deserves a recommendation.
Remineralization at Home
You can cover the enamel with fluoride varnish at home. The main thing is to make sure that the procedure is allowed to you by your doctor. This should be done after sanitation of the oral cavity and a full consultation on the procedure. Properly carried out home fluoridation will not bring harm but save you money and time.