The biggest threat to the health of your teeth is tooth decay. Every day, your smile is ambushed by harmful sugars that turn to acid when they combine with your saliva. As it sits on your teeth, it slowly eats away at your enamel until it creates a small hole, called a cavity. Tooth decay is preventable with the right oral hygiene habits at home, but sometimes brushing and flossing are not enough to maintain a cavity-free smile. Your dentist in Ann Arbor can give you and your loved ones an added layer of protection against decay with a fluoride treatment.
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Despite cavities being preventable, tooth decay is the most prevalent oral health issue in America, especially for children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 25% to 50% of children and adolescents have one or more cavities. While they are very common in children, tooth decay is a concern for adults as well. In fact, research shows 92% of adults have had at least 1 cavity in a permanent tooth.
Fluoride is known as “nature’s cavity fighter” because it is effective for replenishing areas of weakened enamel. It works with phosphate and calcium to repair erosion that can eventually lead to a cavity. Not only can it help reverse the early stages of decay, but it can also make your teeth more resistant to cavity-causing bacteria.
Just about every children’s dentist in Ann Arbor recommends fluoride treatments for young smiles, including Dr. Cocco. Children do not have the best oral hygiene habits or techniques, which is why they are more prone to tooth decay than adults. A fluoride treatment at each routine dental appointment can help safeguard their smile. Although fluoride is often recommended for children, you are never too old to benefit from its protection. Not only can it help prevent cavities, but it can also reduce tooth sensitivity.
A fluoride treatment is quick and painless. We can easily perform it during semi-annual appointments for a cleaning and checkup. After your dental hygienist cleans your teeth to remove harmful buildup, the varnish is painted onto your teeth. Within a matter of a few minutes, it will completely dry; however, we recommend you do not eat or drink anything for at least 20 minutes after it is applied to obtain maximum benefits.
If you are ready to nurture cavity-free smiles in your home, it is time to learn more about fluoride treatments. We can help ensure your family’s teeth last for a lifetime through the power of prevention. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.