Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments aren't just for children!  Studies have shown that fluoride reduces cavities in both children and adults and helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before the decay is visible.  Fluoride is safe and effective when used appropriately.  Flouride is a mineral that naturally occurs in all water sources.  The fluoride ion comes from the element fluorine which is the seventeeth most abundant element in the earth's crust.  However, it is never encountered in its free state in nature as it exists only in combination with other elements as a fluoride compound.

Topical fluoride treatments such as those professionally applied at our office strengthen the teeth making them more decay resistant.  Other readily available topical fluorides include over the counter toothpastes and mouth rinses.  Prescription strength fluoride products are also available for home use.  

Systemic fluorides are available as well.  These are ingested in the body and become important in forming tooth structure.  Systemic fluorides include community water fluoridation or dietary fluoride supplements in the form of tablets, drops or lozenges.

Ask Dr. J. Keith Smith or one of his hygienists about how you can benefit from a home regimen of fluoride.