Maintaining your dental health is simple and easy, but needs consistency. Dr. Mark Peterson, your Sebastian, FL dentist knows just want 
you need to do. Aside from brushing and flossing, he suggests fluoride treatment and here's why.
Acid-producing bacteria accumulates on teeth and around gums producing plaque. Accumulation eventually leads to tooth decay, which deteriorates teeth by exposing sensitive dental layers like the pulp. If you don't visit your Sebastian dentist and follow his recommendations, you may need restorative procedures such as root canal therapy and dental implants.
To avoid serious problems, you need to brush your teeth with for at least two minutes twice a day. Hold the brush at a 40-degree angle and make sure you're using a toothbrush that can clean hard-to-reach areas, like molars. Flossing is just as important. Floss at least once before bed, and make sure to floss between every tooth and areas between teeth and gums.
Dr. Peterson may also advise fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral that prevents progression of early stages of gum disease, prevents tooth decay and repairs teeth. There are two methods of use: topical and systemic.
- Topical fluoride is applied directly to teeth. You'll find it in toothpastes and mouthwash.
- Systemic fluoride is ingested. That's done by drinking or eating food and water containing fluoride.
Visiting your doctor for regular cleanings every six months may also include in-office fluoride treatments. Dr. Peterson applies fluoride in the form of gel, foam, or varnish with the use of a brush or cotton swab, and leaves it for a few minutes then rinses it. Patients shouldn't eat or drink anything for about 30 minutes so teeth can fully absorb fluoride.
Depending on your needs, you should get fluoride treatment according to doctor's recommendation. Here are a few dental issues fluoride treatment can help with:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tooth decay
- Teeth suffering from eating disorders or drug or alcohol abuse
- Exposed root surfaces
- Tooth enamel defects
If you have any questions about fluoride treatment, just call Dr. Peterson at Sebastian River Dentistry in Sebastian, FL.