Fluoride
What is fluoride used for?
Fluorides are a natural component of enamel. Like calcium, phosphorus and other nutrients in water and food, they are an essential element in the formation of bones and teeth.
Fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes are available on the market, and your dentist can provide you with fluoride products such as gels and varnishes.
Everyone can benefit from fluorides and here are some examples of their contribution to dental health:
- Prevention of early childhood caries of primary teeth
- Mineralization of a new tooth that has just erupted, which is more vulnerable to decay
- In varying degrees of caries:
- remineralization of demineralized areas
- stopping the progression of incipient, active or recurrent caries, etc.
- Prevention of cavities during orthodontic treatment because brackets retain biofilm (dental plaque)
- Prevention of exposed root decay when gingival recessions are present
- Prevention of cavities when there is a decrease in saliva and its self-cleaning effect (e.g. xerostomia caused by a drug or disease, etc.).
- An application of concentrated fluoride on a hypersensitive tooth root will help reduce sensitivity to cold and heat.