Using Fluoride to Protect your Teeth

You might brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and visit the dentist every six months, but did you know that using fluorides — a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay — also helps keep your teeth healthy and strong?

Fluoride is proven to be effective in inhibiting cavities and tooth decay by strengthening your teeth. Acids from plaque and sugars will demineralize your teeth, therefore, at Dr. Henize and Mooreheads' office, we strongly encourage simple and affordable ways to remineralize your teeth.

Fluoride is applied in two modalities, topically and systemically:

• Topical fluoride is applied directly to the teeth and includes either over-the-counter or prescription toothpastes and gels, varnish or mouth rinses.
• Systemic fluorides are generally only prescribed by your dentist or physician. Systemic fluoride treatments are  designed to help protect the oral health of young children undergoing dental challenges, especially if there is not sufficient fluoride in the drinking water.

Receiving a fluoride treatment from Dr. Henize:

A fluoride treatment in our dental office takes just a few minutes. After the treatment, patients may be asked not to rinse, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or Dr. Henize and Mooreheads' recommendations, you may be requested to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or twelve months. We may also prescribe an at-home fluoride product. Dr. Henize dispenses:

• MI Paste
• Fluoridex
• ProDenRx
• Control Rx

How to choose the right fluoride treatment

When choosing your own at-home fluoride product (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), always check for the American Dental Association's (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined by the ADA, and approved, based on safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth and smile with dental fluoride treatments!

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