You rarely hear the word “toothpaste” without it being preceded by “fluoride.” “Fluoride toothpaste” is ubiquitous for good reason.
Fluoride is an essential mineral that helps your teeth stay strong. It is found in some foods and water and makes toothpaste more effective at fighting cavities. Fluoride helps teeth by making them stronger and more resistant to the harmful acid that is formed by bacteria. Dr. Christopher Bowman may recommend a fluoride treatment in addition to your dental cleaning.
The fluoride used in in-office treatments comes in either a gel or foam and may be available in several flavors. The fluoride is applied directly to teeth through the use of a plastic dental tray that fits over your teeth. The tray is kept in your mouth for just a few minutes. Fluoride treatments are a fairly simple and painless way to strengthen your teeth and maintain an attractive smile.
While many Advanced Dentistry of Charlotte – Dr. Christopher A. Bowman patients understand the importance of fluoride treatments in fortifying developing teeth in children, some do not realize the importance of fluoride for adults. For this reason, fluoride treatments are sometimes recommended to adults who are susceptible to enamel wear or cavities.
If you wonder if you or your child is getting enough fluoride, talk to Dr. Bowman about fluoride supplements. Dr. Bowman will let you know if they are required and determine the precise supplement dosage. Don’t give your child fluoride supplements without your dentist’s counsel. Too much fluoride can lead to fluorosis which discolors teeth and, ironically, can make teeth more susceptible to cavities.
A factor that affects the amount of fluoride your kids are receiving is where you get your drinking water. Your children may not need fluoride supplements if they drink tap water from a fluoridated North Carolina municipal water supply. If your family only drinks bottled water without fluoride, you may want to examine supplementation. Keep in mind that the FDA does not require bottled water companies to list the fluoride content on the bottle label and many brands sold in the Dilworth area do not contain fluoride.
If your child is getting adequate levels of fluoride but continues to get cavities, communicate with Dr. Bowman about helpful dental sealants. They have proven to be very effective at protecting the rear molars from decay.
Dr. Bowman is enthusiastic about preventative dentistry with vital twice-yearly exams and dental cleanings that may include a fluoride treatment. Call 704-337-8070 to book an exam and cleaning and be on your way to a healthy, attractive smile!
Advanced Dentistry of Charlotte – Dr. Christopher A. Bowman is located at 1618 E Morehead St Ste 100 in Charlotte. We provide premium dental care with a comprehensive menu of general and cosmetic dental procedures including smile makeovers, restorative dentistry, and family dentistry. Christopher Bowman is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. You can learn more about the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry at http://www.aacd.com/.
Contact Advanced Dentistry of Charlotte – Dr. Christopher A. Bowman:
704-337-8070
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1618 E Morehead St Ste 100
Charlotte, North Carolina
28207
