Do Adults Need Fluoride Treatments?

You know that fluoride is important for children’s smiles to remain healthy, but did you know that it is also important for adult teeth? Fluoride is the active ingredient in dental products, like toothpaste and mouthwash. Kids often times receive fluoride treatments when they go to the dental office for regular checkups, but should you consider having this done too? Continue reading to learn more about fluoride treatments.

What Are the Types of Fluoride Treatments?

There are two different types of fluoride treatments that you can choose from: in-office and at-home. If you choose to go to the dental office, you can be administered the treatment easily and quickly. It involves the use of a special fluoride foam or gel that is painted onto the teeth or placed in a tray and worn for several minutes. This substance come from a variety of flavors to help make the experience as pleasant as possible for both adults and children.

In some situations, patients are prescribed at-home fluoride treatments. They are generally gels that can be brushed onto the teeth, but they are only usually prescribed for people who are at higher risk of dental decay or have another need for it.

How Does Fluoride Benefit Adults?

Fluoride is great for children, but it is also beneficial for adults when it comes to preventing decay. Fluoride is especially important for adults who suffer from dry mouth as a result of medication or another reason. If you don’t have enough saliva in the mouth to remineralize your teeth, your mouth could be in trouble.

How to Know If You Need Fluoride Treatment?

For most people, brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water is good enough when it comes to keeping your teeth healthy. However, there are still some situations where extra fluoride is especially necessary. If you are taking any medications that cause dry mouth, have periodontal disease, have had cavities recently, or have dental crowns, it is something that should be considered.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Decay?

Here are just a few tips to prevent the formation of dental cavities going forward:

• Avoid snacking on high carb foods
• Use fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash
• Brush twice and floss once daily
• Chew sugarless gum

By using fluoride, you can help your teeth to remain strong. By talking to your dentist about fluoride treatment and using the tips listed above, you can lower your risk for cavities in the future.

About the Author

Dr. Terry F. Rakowsky is an experienced dentist who has been working in the dental field for nearly 35 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and has completed continuing education at the world-renowned Dawson Academy and Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Currently, he is a proud member of both the American Dental Association and the Pennsylvania Dental Association. To learn more about fluoride treatment or to schedule an appointment at his office in Doylestown, visit his website or call (215) 348-2224.