About fluoride application
Fluoride helps remineralize teeth and strengthens them.It is effective for people of all ages, but children's teeth are particularly soft for about two years after they first grow in, making them more susceptible to cavities. Regular application of fluoride can strengthen the tooth structure, making it stronger and less susceptible to cavities.
Fluoride application is included in the PMTC (tooth cleaning) menu.
Since teeth cleaning and fluoride application must be done together, at our clinic,Fluoride application is included in the PMTC (professional teeth cleaning) process.As a general rule, we do not offer fluoride coating alone.
Three effects of fluoride
Effect of fluoride 1Suppresses the production of acids that cause tooth decay
It weakens the activity of bacteria that cause cavities and are produced by plaque that cannot be completely removed by daily brushing.It can reduce the amount of acid produced by plaque, lowering the risk of cavities
Effect of fluoride 2Promotes remineralization and repairs teeth
It promotes the remineralization of calcium and phosphorus dissolved from teeth.When the surface of the tooth is dissolved by acid, the tooth is restored by remineralization.This is a natural self-cleaning effect of saliva, but fluoride can enhance this effect.
Effect of fluoride 3Strengthens tooth structure and makes it more resistant to cavities
During the aforementioned tooth remineralization process, fluoride binds to the components of the enamel on the surface of the teeth.After remineralization, the tooth structure becomes harder and stronger, making the teeth less susceptible to cavities.
Why fluoride application is effective for children
Fluoride application for children has various effects, and is recommended at our clinic. The reason why fluoride is effective for children's teeth is because it takes about two years for newly grown immature teeth to become mature teeth.For about two years after teeth emerge, teeth are soft and have little resistance to acid, making them susceptible to cavities.This means that applying fluoride can make your teeth stronger.
At what age should fluoride application be started?
Fluoride application is effective for immature teeth that have just come in, so theoretically the earlier it is administered the more effective it will be. However, this does not mean that if you do not apply fluoride to newly emerging baby teeth, they will immediately develop cavities!Starts around 1 to 2 years old when most of the teeth have grown inIt would be a good idea to do so.
Comment from Doctor
Will applying fluoride prevent tooth decay?
of courseEven if you apply fluoride, it does not mean that you will not get cavities.The important thing is daily self-care. In addition, we also recommend regular checkups at the dentist.
Benefits of fluoride application for adults
Fluoride application is also effective on adult teeth. Unlike children's teeth, adult teeth are mature and hard, so it is said that fluoride application is less effective. However, the gums of adult teeth can recede due to aging or periodontal disease, exposing the tooth roots. This area is at high risk of cavities because there is no hard enamel and the surface is soft, but fluoride application can reduce the risk of cavities.
It is important to make fluoride application a habit
Fluoride application is very effective in reducing the risk of tooth decay for both children and adults.We recommend that you make it a habit to regularly apply high-concentration fluoride (every 3-4 months at our clinic).doing.
Comment from Doctor
The difference between fluoride toothpaste and fluoride application at the dentist
The concentration is different. The amount of fluoride contained in commercially available toothpaste is capped by regulations set by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.Dental clinics can apply fluoride at concentrations several times higher than that found in commercially available toothpastes.Of course, toothpaste containing fluoride is effective, so it is a good idea to apply fluoride at the dentist and brush your teeth at home at the same time.