Fluoride Treatment in Jerusalem: Benefits, Side Effects, And More
Fluoride treatments are preventative treatments, which means they need to be performed before a certain dental problem might arise, to narrow the chances of it developing. Different methods of fluoride treatments are common around the world, one of them is adding fluoride to water or to the toothpaste. You can undergo fluoride treatments in Dr. Stela Heisler’s clinic in Talpiot, Jerusalem.
What is Fluoride, and Why do the Teeth Need It?
Fluoride is a substance that naturally exists in the tooth’s outer coating. Fluoride makes the tooth stronger, prevents its dissolution due to tooth decay, and makes it more durable to the mouth’s germs acidity. The issue is that over time, the tooth coating wears off and the amount of fluoride in it naturally decreases.
Without fluoride, the tooth coating severely weakens and becomes much more vulnerable to germs that generate an acidic environment and can hurt the teeth and gums – which is why it’s terribly important to regain fluoride to help fight tooth decay, cavities, and gum inflammation. Even if there already is a cavity, the fluoride won’t cure it, but it can help protect the healthy parts of the tooth.
Regaining fluoride happens through contact. That is, it’s enough for the fluoride to touch the tooth to be absorbed in it and make it stronger. There are a number of ways to do that:
- In some countries, like in Israel, Europe and the USA, fluoride is being added to the water through a process called water fluoridization. That way, some fluoride comes into contact with the teeth when you consume water, water-based drinks (like tea), food that was cooked in water, and so on.
- Most toothpastes contain fluoride, so during the brushing of the teeth, the teeth receive another small dose of daily fluoride.
- You can purchase additional fluoride infused products like mouth wash or floss, and use it daily.
- You can add more fluoride to the teeth’s’ coating through preventative treatments at the dentist.
What is a Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride treatment is performed by an experienced dental hygienist. During the treatment, the dentist or dental hygienist places a designated dental brace that contains a gel with a high concentration of fluoride to the patient’s teeth. Then, the patient closes their mouth to allow the substance to be absorbed for a few minutes, and that’s it.
Besides slight discomfort, the treatment doesn’t involve any pain or unpleasantry. It’s best not to eat or drink anything after the treatment for at least an hour, to allow the fluoride to be absorbed well. Since the gel contains a high concentration of fluoride, the amount that is absorbed by the teeth is far higher than the amount absorbed from drinking water or toothpaste.
Who Needs Fluoride Treatments and Why?
As previously mentioned, fluoride treatment is considered to be a preventative treatment, which is why it should occur at least once a year. We might recommend a person in high risk for tooth decay or cavities to undergo this treatment more frequently, or to be instructed on how to do home fluoride treatments using special fluoride gel or mouthwash.
Fluoride Treatment: Benefits
- Prevents tooth decay: Fluoride treatments can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and making it more resistant to acid attacks.
- Strengthens tooth enamel: Fluoride treatments can strengthen tooth enamel, which can reduce the risk of tooth decay and help to repair early stages of decay.
- Safe and effective: Fluoride treatments are safe and effective when used in the correct amounts and under the guidance of a dental professional.
- Cost-effective: Fluoride treatments are relatively inexpensive and can be done in a short amount of time.
Fluoride Treatment: Side Effects
- Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride intake can lead to fluorosis, which is a condition that affects tooth enamel and can cause white spots or discoloration on the teeth.
- Upset stomach: Ingesting large amounts of fluoride can cause an upset stomach and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to fluoride, which can cause symptoms such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
- Overuse: Overuse of fluoride treatments can lead to a condition called hyperfluorosis, which can cause damage to the bones and teeth.
Are you interested in fluoride treatments in Jerusalem? Schedule a consultation appointment now and become one of our hundreds of pleased patients!
