Dr. Joseph B. Brogdon, DDS
Chattanooga, TN

Fluoride

Many of my patients inquire as to why I recommend fluoride treatments to all of my patients when most dental insurance plans only pay for fluoride in children up to 18 years of age.  The reason is that fluoride is a key factor in preventative dental care for people of all ages.

Fluoride is proven to help prevent cavities because it slows down the breakdown of enamel by food acids, and working with saliva, it speeds up the natural remineralization process.  When a weak spot on your tooth is detected, an at home fluoride program can reverse the decay process.  If the weak spot is left unchecked, a cavity may form, necessitating a filling.  If decay is allowed to spread, it may penetrate the root and enter the pulp, or nerve chamber, causing an abscess and requiring root canal treatment.

You can receive fluoride three ways: in your water supply, from fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses, and in fluoride treatments at your dentist's office. 

Children benefit from fluoride in the water when teeth are forming.  Fluoride treatments are more important for adults because fluoride in the water does not benefit teeth after they are formed.

Root surface cavities occur more frequently in adults than children.  As a person ages, the best preventative treatments to avoid root surface cavities are plenty of fluoride toothpaste used for at least 2-3 minute brushing sessions 2-3 times daily and dental fluoride treatments at preventative dental checkups.

In certain cases, at home fluoride treatments may be prescribed.  Patients who have several cavities, or have had extensive dental treatment may be prescribed at home fluoride treatments.