When you address tooth decay in its earliest stages, it is reversible with fluoride treatments. Other important ways to prevent tooth decay include annual dental exams and practicing proper oral hygiene at home. Professional teeth cleaning at Splendid Dental Bellaire can remove these particles and harmful bacteria before it causes symptoms.
Tooth decay is the leading dental problem not only in the United States but also globally. It is the most prevalent chronic condition globally, with 3.9 billion people having some form of it. Tooth decay is a progressive infectious disease because it creates bacterial imbalances in your mouth. While tooth decay can lead to missing teeth, gum disease, and painful infections, it is highly preventable.
What Is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay begins when food particles and other substances are left rotting in your mouth. Brushing at least twice a day is an important way to prevent tooth decay because it removes food particles and debris from your mouth and teeth. When food particles and debris become stuck between your teeth or between your teeth and gums, it can create plaque. Plaque is a substance that accumulates on the exterior of your tooth and top of your enamel.
Bacteria feed off of plaque and then release a damaging acid. This byproduct thins your enamel, which can cause cavities to develop inside your teeth. Once cavities form, they will continue to grow until your general dentist removes the existing decay and fills the tooth. When cavities expand, they can create a roadway for bacteria to enter your pulp. When plaque becomes trapped between your teeth and gums, it creates an opportunity for bacteria to infect your gums.
Tooth decay can also cause severe oral infections and cosmetic problems. When your enamel thins, your teeth can become discolored and yellow.
Tooth decay, when left untreated and neglected, can also cause:
- Tooth loss
- Crooked and misaligned teeth
- Pain and inflammation
- Discoloration, yellowing, and staining
Sometimes, inadequate fluoride consumption can lead to tooth decay, especially if you don’t drink fluoride-enriched drinks. Fluoride treatments can help strengthen your enamel and prevent tooth decay.
The Benefits of Fluoride Treatments
A fluoride treatment at Splendid Dental Bellaire is a highly effective, painless, and non-invasive way to protect your teeth. Fluoride helps reverse early forms of tooth decay by helping your enamel heal. A fluoride treatment at Splendid Dental Bellaire can take as little as 5 minutes and is a simple outpatient procedure.
During fluoride treatments, your dentist will use a brush or cotton swab to apply a fluoride enriched solution, gel, or foam to the exterior of your teeth. The fluoride solution will soak on your teeth for several minutes before your dentist removes it. Fluoride treatments add fluoride to your saliva, which helps kill off harmful bacteria. Another benefit of fluoride treatments is that standard dental insurance plans usually cover them as a preventative treatment. Fluoride treatments can be administered as often as every few months, depending on your needs.
Your Splendid Dental Bellaire dentist can provide fluoride treatments during your annual exam, which is an excellent idea because your dentist will remove any plaque and tartar buildup and clean your mouth before administering the treatment.
Schedule a Fluoride Treatment at Splendid Dental Bellaire Today
The best way to protect your teeth and mouth is to practice good dental hygiene. Any successful dental hygiene routine requires you to not only brush and floss daily but also to visit your dentist at least once a year.
To find out more about the best fluoride treatments in Texas, reach out to Splendid Dental Bellaire online, or call us at 713-244-7797 today.