If a general dentist recommends fluoride treatments, patients may express concerns about the lasting effects of fluoride. They may also wonder whether eating and drinking are possible immediately afterward. Fortunately, fluoride is one of the easiest dental treatments to undergo with little to no waiting period and great benefits in the long term. Just a few quick aftercare techniques can preserve the fluoride and maintain strong teeth.
Fluoride is a mineral that naturally strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities. Applying fluoride in a professional setting is a simple, painless task that can be accomplished in a short period of time — even over a patient’s lunch break. Fluoride may be applied through a mouthwash or varnish. Some treatments do not need any rest time, and patients can eat immediately afterward. If a patient receives a varnish, the general dentist may recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before eating and until nighttime for brushing to let the varnish adhere to the teeth.
Patients interested in maintaining the full integrity of the fluoride treatment should avoid certain foods directly after the dental visit. Items that are especially hot, cold, crunchy, sticky, hard, spicy, or acidic are better to avoid. If a patient is not sure about some foods, simply waiting half an hour before eating at all is a safe bet. After a few hours, everything is fine to eat.
While fluoride is a fantastic option to strengthen enamel and avoid decay, it can be harmful in large doses. Taking care of teeth by practicing daily oral hygiene is the most effective way to maintain great health. Brush twice each day, floss at least once, use mouthwash, and visit a general dentist biannually.
In addition to discussing aftercare, a patient should also understand how fluoride treatments benefit teeth, how to properly prepare for them, and what side effects might occur. Asking the right questions can help patients make educated decisions on treatments and overall oral health.
Fluoride treatments are beneficial to both the teeth and gums. Natural bacteria that form in the mouth gradually decay tooth enamel. Fluoride restores the minerals in teeth and makes them stronger. Fluoride can also eliminate bacteria and stop its growth, which prevents cavities from forming and gums from getting infected.
It is possible to consume too much fluoride and experience negative side effects. An overabundance of fluoride may create staining or spotting and cause teeth to grow dense but not strong. Fluoride poisoning is rare but also possible.
Fluoride is one of the easiest dental procedures. Other than brushing thoroughly before arriving at the dental office, patients do not need to prepare for fluoride.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
General Dentist in Benicia, CA
Keeping teeth strong and healthy is crucial to avoid future oral problems. Patients who are susceptible to cavities or decay may want to consider fluoride in addition to regular oral hygiene habits. Talk to a general dentist if questions still remain about the process and benefits.
Request an appointment or call Southampton Dental Care at 707-887-5075 for an appointment in our Benicia office.
Learning how to prevent cavities from a general dentist is smart. General dentists understand everything there is to know about how to take care of your mouth and are a great source of dental information. Whether you think you already have a cavity or want to make a preventive appointment to avoid getting a cavity…
It is common knowledge that oral health is important and includes regular visits to the general dentist. However, due to busy schedules, there is hardly any time to keep up with those appointments, especially if people do not know what to expect. Routine dental appointments help ensure that potential issues never develop or get out…
A general dentist is a professional in a position of enormous trust. A dentist's duties include diagnosing and sometimes treating conditions of the mouth to relieve oral pain, as well as performing prophylactic treatment to prevent dental conditions. Becoming a dentist involves meeting requirements set by the state to obtain a dental license. To get…
Individuals suffering from damaged or unsightly teeth may benefit from receiving dental crowns. This straightforward and relatively common procedure can help restore the look and function of healthy, natural teeth. While a variety of components may be used to form dental crowns based on the patient's individual preferences and needs, the installation process is usually…
Learning how to prevent cavities from a general dentist is smart. General dentists understand everything there is to know about how to take care of your mouth and are a great source of dental information. Whether you think you already have a cavity or want to make a preventive appointment to avoid getting a cavity…