Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral present in water and food. It is the main mineral component in the body that helps in strengthening teeth and bones. Fluoride treatment is the intentional consumption or application of fluoride supplements to aid in remineralization and treat tooth decay. Fluoride treatments have been very controversial because excessive amounts of fluoride can be dangerous to your health. However, experts claim that if used in controlled amounts, fluoride treatments can help in treating several conditions caused by a fluoride deficiency. Which begs the question, are fluoride treatments safest?
Safety of Fluoride Treatments
According to the Australian Dental Association, a professional fluoride treatment is recommended at least once a year depending on an individual’s oral health. If you are more susceptible to cavities or have a history of cavities, you will definitely need more fluoride treatments in a year. The fluoride that is topically applied at the dentists has more fluoride concentration than you would consume, say in food or water. This is why they are generally a topic of discussion when it comes to safety and health hazards.
Why Fluoride Treatments
While not everybody can be a candidate for a fluoride treatment, fluoride treatments have been used in different applications to treat different conditions. Fluoride treatment is commonly administered to children to promote healthy teeth development and to prevent and reverse tooth decay at an early stage.In adults, fluoride treatment is also used to treat tooth decay and strengthen teeth.
Application of Fluoride Treatment
Apart from treating dental caries, fluoride treatment has also been used to treat other conditions that affect oral health. A fluoride treatment is usually in the form of a gel, foam, mouth wash, or varnish. It can also be ingested in the form of supplements. Some of the conditions that have benefited from fluoride treatment are as follows:
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is an oral condition that affects the gum tissue. At an earlier stage, periodontitis is referred to as gingivitis. Gingivitis affects the gum tissue and exposed the teeth roots making the teeth sensitive and prone to decay.
Dry mouth
Fluoride treatment is also administered to patients with a dry mouth condition. When there is no saliva flow in the mouth, the teeth are more prone to decay, and fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth and kill bacteria that may lead to cavities.
Crowns and Braces
People that have dentures or crowns and braces are also recommended to have a fluoride treatment because their teeth may be susceptible to decay at the point where the dentures meet the tooth structure.
Possible Side Effects of Fluoride Treatment
Just like any other type of medication, if taken inappropriately or in large quantities, too much fluoride can have various side effects as follows:
- Pitting
- Discoloration
- Imbalance in bone homeostasis
- Weak bones
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
The Bottom-line
Fluoride treatment is a necessary treatment, especially as far as oral health is concerned. Although it may have its downside if administered inappropriately, fluoride can be taken for its various health benefits in the body. Carrum Downs Dental Group offers professional fluoride treatment to individuals with the various conditions mentioned above. We also administer controlled fluoride treatment for infants and children to help in tooth development.