Cosmetic Dentistry and Skin Care Blog

If tooth decay is an ongoing problem for you, ask your dentist if you're lacking the minerals required to protect your tooth enamel. Every day, your teeth lose minerals as they're attacked by acids, sugars and bacteria. This process is called demineralization, and it's usually counteracted by the redepositing of calcium, fluoride and other minerals back onto the enamel. The redepositing, or remineralization, can only occur if you have the required replacement minerals. When your body is lacking fluoride and other critical minerals, tooth decay can set in.

The Fluoride Solution

Up until now, you may have thought of fluoride as only a toothpaste additive. But did you know that fluoride is often present in water and many kinds of food? And when used properly, it's also a big part of the tooth decay solution. Fluoride helps with tooth development in children, and it hardens the surface of existing teeth in adults and older kids. The proper amount of fluoride prevents demineralization-and makes teeth more resistant to enamel breakdown and decay.

So how do you get fluoride? In addition to the fluoride present in food and water, fluoride is available in toothpastes, over-the-counter and prescription mouthwashes, and gel or foam treatments. If you're at risk for tooth decay, your dentist may apply gel or foam fluoride directly to your teeth or place it in a mouth guard to ensure adequate coverage.

Who Needs Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride intake is critical for infants, toddlers and children between six months and 16 years as teeth are developing and erupting. But fluoride intake should not stop after adolescence. Older teens and adults can also prevent tooth decay with regular, topical fluoride treatments.

If you have any of the following health concerns, your dentist may recommend additional, more intensive fluoride applications.

• Frequent tooth decay: If you have a high rate of tooth decay (1-2+ cavities a year), it could be an indication that you need regular fluoride treatments.
• Gingival recession (a form of gum disease): Gingival recession exposes tooth roots, making teeth more susceptible to decay.
• Dry mouth: Certain types of diseases, allergies, or medications can cause excessive dry mouth. Saliva is important to the breakdown of acids and food, and its absence may cause frequent cavities and enamel softening.
• Corrective hardware: Braces, retainers, crowns and bridges can keep teeth from receiving the fluoride they need through daily exposure. Your dentist may need to apply fluoride directly to brackets and appliances to prevent underlying tooth decay.

Improve Your Smile with Smile and Skin

If you're concerned about excessive tooth decay, ask the Smile and Skin team if you could benefit from fluoride treatments. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Meola today, and ask about our variety of dental maintenance and cosmetic procedures. We'll help you protect your teeth-and enjoy your smile!