African american man smiling and sitting in dental chair while dentist holds tools

Many people have heard of fluoride and that it is good for our teeth. Do you know why, and how it works? Read on to learn more about fluoride and why it is vital to a healthy smile.

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally found in the earth’s crust, as well as in nature. It is added to drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride helps to prevent cavities by concentrating in the growing bones and teeth of children, hardening adult teeth before they emerge, as well as strengthening enamel on adult teeth that have already emerged.

How Does Fluoride Work?

After we eat, our saliva contains acids that can cause calcium and phosphorus to dissolve under the tooth’s surface. Fluoride can help to harden the minerals in your teeth, strengthening them and preventing damage in the future.

Fluoride Treatment Options

Topical fluoride treatments can be applied directly to the teeth, and can include toothpaste, mouth rinse, and professional fluoride treatments. Topical fluoride is only placed in the mouth for a short period of time, though fluoride levels will remain high in the mouth for several hours after treatments.

Professional fluoride treatments can be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish, and helps to strengthen the teeth. At our office, we offer professional fluoride treatments. Both children and adults can benefit from fluoride treatments, though it can be especially beneficial to children who are growing in their adult teeth.

Call Today

If you have any questions regarding fluoride treatments, don’t hesitate to ask our dentists in Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and Comstock Park, MI. Call one of our MI Smiles Dental locations today to get started and schedule your appointment.