The Adult Side of Fluoride Benefits
We’ve known always about fluoride’s benefits. Fluoride is the agent that strengthens young developing teeth by fighting decay-causing bacteria and, hence, is mainly for children’s benefit. New research, however, uncovered that topical application of fluoride can fight tooth decay in people of all ages – from children to adults.
If your drinking water is fluoridated, then brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste is sufficient for most adults with healthy teeth. However, some people with certain conditions may be at increased risk of tooth decay, so additional fluoride treatment can be beneficial.
These adults should have fluoride treatments: Those who suffer from Dry Mouth Syndrome, a condition caused by certain diseases, certain medications (such as allergy medications, antihistamines, antianxiety drugs, and high blood pressure drugs), and those who’ve had head and neck radiation. Their dry mouths, resulting from lack of saliva, make them prone to tooth decay.
Those who have gingivitis and its more severe form, periodontitis, carry the increased risk of attracting bacteria to exposed root surfaces leading to tooth decay. In periodontitis, gums tend to recede and expose the gum line or may create pockets for lodging of bacteria. These situations need fluoride treatments to decrease the chances of attacks and decay.
Those who wear crowns, bridges, or braces create small hiding places where food debris can lodge and form cavities. The appliances also make it harder to keep teeth always clean even with brushing. These adults need regular fluoride exposures.
Fluoride forms are available as fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses. While over-the-counter products have weaker fluoride content, a dentist’s prescription can get you a stronger one. You can also apply fluoride to the teeth as a gel, foam, or varnish. Your dentist should know just what form is suitable to your needs and just how strong it needs to be for you.
Fluoride for Everyone in Bellevue
Ask your Bellevue dentist about fluoride treatments if you have these conditions – dry mouth, gum disease or are wearing crowns and other dental appliances. You might be just a another regular guy without these setbacks, but you can still benefit from fluoride experience.
