Each day the acidic foods and beverages you consume and the natural bacteria in your mouth can work to erode the mineral strength of your tooth enamel. If it is not counteracted in some way, this process of demineralization can leave your teeth vulnerable to tooth decay and sensitivity.
Exposing your teeth to fluoride helps restore this microscopic mineral erosion in a process known as remineralization. This can strengthen tooth enamel, reverse sensitivity issues and prevent bacteria from exploiting the area to form cavities.
If you’ve struggled with chronic tooth decay and sensitivity issues, your dentist, Dr. Marianne Morelli, might recommend having a basic fluoride treatment administered. In many cases, this can be done after she has completed your routine dental checkup.
Dr. Marianne Morelli will simply pour a little bit of concentrated fluoride gel into trays that are held in your mouth for a few minutes. Afterward, you should avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes to an hour to allow the fluoride to deeply penetrate into your tooth enamel.
If your teeth suffer from significant demineralization issues, Dr. Marianne Morelli might also prescribe daily fluoride supplements. Some of the most common forms include sublingual tabs or a concentrated fluoride mouth rinse or toothpaste.
If you are due for your next dental checkup in Brookfield, Connecticut, you should call Brookfield Family Dentistry, LLC at 203.775.6167 to ask about adding a fluoride treatment.