Dental fluoridation – oral health at your fingertips

Dental fluoridation is one of the most important dental procedures aimed at maintaining the health and condition of our teeth.In this article, we will find out what exactly this procedure is, when it is indicated, how it is performed, and what its advantages and potential side effects are.There will also be information about contraindications, costs and recommendations after fluoridation.

Fluoridation – what kind of treatment is it, what are the indications?

Fluoridation is the process of applying fluoride to the surface of teeth to increase their resistance to decay.It is a preventive treatment that aims to protect the teeth against the effects of acids and bacteria that may lead to the development of carious lesions.Fluoride forms a mineralized layer on the teeth, strengthening their enamel and preventing demineralization.

Indications for fluoridation are primarily:

• High risk of caries.
• Preventing further progression of existing caries.
• Problems with enamel re-mineralization.
• Salivary secretion disorders.
• Dental development periods in children.

Fluoridation in children – when is it performed?

Fluoridation is especially important in children because their teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay.The procedure can be started when the first permanent teeth erupt, usually around 6 years of age.Fluoridation in children is an effective preventive measure that can reduce the risk of caries and keep teeth healthy for many years.

What does a fluoridation treatment look like?

The fluoridation procedure is quick, painless and does not require special preparation.It usually takes several steps:

1. Preparing teeth – the dentist or dental hygienist first thoroughly cleans the teeth, removing plaque and tartar.
2. Applying fluoride – a special gel or foam with fluoride is applied to the tooth surface using a brush or overlay.
3. Drying – the teeth are dried using a stream of air, which helps absorb fluoride better.
4. The procedure is usually painless and the entire procedure takes only a few minutes.

Can fluoridation be harmful?advantages and possible side effects

Fluoridation is considered a safe and effective way to protect teeth from tooth decay.However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks and potential side effects.The most important advantages of fluoridation are:

• Reducing the risk of caries.
• Strengthening tooth enamel.
• Protection of teeth against acids.
• Quick and painless procedure.

Possible side effects of fluoridation include rare cases of excessive fluoride consumption, which may lead to fluorosis, i.e. discoloration of the enamel.Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended doses of fluoride and inform the dentist about any problems after the procedure.

Fluoridation – contraindications

Not everyone can undergo fluoridation.There are contraindications to this procedure, such as:

• Allergic reactions to fluoride.
• High level of fluoride in the body.
• Kidney or thyroid disease.
• Salivary secretion disorders.

Before starting fluoridation, it is worth consulting a dentist and undergoing appropriate tests to exclude contraindications.

How much does fluoridation cost and how often can it be done?

The cost of fluoridation may vary depending on the region and dental facility.However, it is usually a relatively inexpensive procedure that can be cost-effective in terms of preventing expensive caries treatments.In terms of frequency, fluoridation is recommended every 6-12 months, although this may be tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

What are the recommendations after fluoridation treatment?

After fluoridation, there are several recommendations that will help maintain the effects of the treatment and minimize the risk of side effects:

• Avoiding eating and drinking for approximately 30 minutes after treatment to allow the fluoride to absorb into the enamel.
• Avoiding the consumption of acidic foods for several hours after fluoridation.
• Regular oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing.
• Regular visits to the dentist to monitor your oral health.

Your suggestions

If you have questions about dental fluoridation or would like to share your experiences, please feel free to contact us.We will be happy to provide you with additional information and advice!

Recommended articles

If you are interested in oral health, we recommend you check out our other articles on the topic:

• “How to take care of your oral hygiene – tips and tricks.”
• “Caries in children – how to prevent and treat it?”
• “Dental implants – a solution for lost teeth.”

Thanks to these articles, you will learn more about maintaining oral health and effective methods of oral care.