Fluoride Treatment and Tooth Sensitivity

At first we’ll identify the reasons why your teeth may be more sensitive than the norm. They we’ll look at the benefits of the use of fluoride for your teeth and finally how a professional raleigh fluoride treatment can only benefit you and your teeth.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Each and every tooth has a hard-outside shell called the enamel. The next layer under the enamel is the dentin which physically makes up the majority of the tooth. The dentin contains microscopic tubules or canals that lead to the nerves. When the enamel becomes thin these tubules allow both heat and cold to stimulate the nerves causing escalating sensitivity.

What Causes the Enamel to Thin?

It could simply be your genetics. It’s the way you are built. Or it could be bad habits. You may partake in a diet that is high in acidic foods and drink that will wear away at the enamel. If you have bad oral hygiene habits and don’t take care of your teeth it will result in tooth decay. Finally, if you error to the other side and are too aggressive in brushing your teeth you can also damage the enamel of the tooth and also cause gum recession.

What does Fluoride do for your Teeth?

Fluoride is a mineral that is found in many foods and water. Each day the enamel of your teeth loses minerals. We all have millions of bacteria in our mouth every day. When this amount is not kept in check a plaque will form on the tooth carrying sugars and acids which will attack the enamel and the minerals. This process when allowed to progress creates tooth decay.

Fluoride replenishes those lost minerals. When used on a regular basis it can help prevent tooth decay by making the enamel more resistant to acid attacks. It can reverse earlier decay. Fluoride can speed up the remineralization process to help strengthen the enamel, therefore reversing your sensitivity. The fluoride is actually absorbed into the enamel to deposit the minerals to strengthen the tooth.

Different Types and Levels of Fluoride Treatment

As mentioned before, fluoride can be found in your tap water. You can enhance the amount of fluoride your teeth are subjected to by using a mouthwash or certainly using a toothpaste that has fluoride in the gel or paste. A professional fluoride treatment in the dental office usually only takes a few minutes. The fluoride, in the form of a solution, foam, varnish or gel is applied to your teeth with a swab, brush or a tray. After the treatment, you will be asked to not rinse, eat or drink for 30 minutes giving your teeth a chance to absorb the fluoride. By having a professional treatment and good, consistent oral hygiene habits you can have success in combating your tooth sensitivity. Do not forget to use this opportunity to establish the habit of seeing your dentist every six months for a regular examination. Something as simple as fluoride can go a long way in preventing negative circumstances at a later date. Enjoy your smile.

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