You may have heard the fluoride is an important element in the fight against tooth decay. But what exactly is fluoride and why is it so important? The best dentist in Montreal explains.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent cavities by making your tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to the acids, bacteria and plaque that make acid and cause tooth decay. To ensure that teeth stay strong and healthy, getting enough fluoride is essential for both adults and children.
How do I get fluoride?
When you use dental products that contain fluoride, it helps to remineralize (rebuild) weakened tooth enamel and can reverse early signs of tooth decay. Some foods and most water sources naturally contain fluoride. It is also added to public water sources to help prevent cavities and tooth decay.
To ensure that teeth are protected, adults should brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and use a mouth rinse containing fluoride.
Gently start brushing your child’s teeth when they start to erupt using water or a tiny bit of non-fluoridated toothpaste. Children can start brushing with fluoride toothpaste at three years old, using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Supervising young children’s brushing is important to ensure that they don’t use too much toothpaste and to make sure they spit it out when done. Children younger than six should not use a fluoride rinse, as they tend to swallow it.
Professional Fluoride Treatment from the Best Dentist in Montreal
Dentists provide professional topical application of fluoride in the form of gels, foams and varnishes. This is particularly important for children and adults who live in areas with unfluoridated water. Your dentist may also recommend fluoride tablets or lozenges if there is not enough fluoride in the water in your community or if you’re at high risk for tooth decay and cavities.
Our Westmount dental clinic offers fluoride treatment from the best dentist in Montreal. We provide comprehensive dental care and treatment that will keep your family’s smiles happy and healthy.
