Fluoride Treatment Side Effects
The benefits of fluoride treatment far outweigh the list of minor undesirable side effects. Let’s identify what fluoride is, the effects and benefits of having fluoride treatments, the possible negative side effects and the different treatment applications available.
What is Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral found in the chemical element called fluorine. It is found in tap water and many natural food products. Fluoride in just another element advantageous to keep the anatomy of your mouth in balance.
The Working Anatomy of your Mouth
Your mouth is just one of many little universes, or systems, in our bodies. It starts with the presence of millions of bacteria in our mouths every day. Bacteria that is necessary to begin the process of breaking down foods to pull out the nutrients we need. But if the bacteria counts are not kept in balance a clear sticky substance forms on your teeth called plaque. This plaque converts the bacteria into acids which will then immediately attack the enamel, or the hard surface of the tooth, resulting in damaging cavities. The enamel is made up of minerals and it loses minerals every day always under attack from the bacteria.
The Balancing Act with Fluoride Treatments
By introducing fluoride, the enamel surfaces of the teeth are allowed to replenish the supply of minerals. In fact, through the remineralization process the enamel has the ability to get stronger. Fluoride is available every day by drinking plenty of water. You can introduce more fluoride with mouthwashes, mouth rinses or a toothpaste that has fluoride added. There are over the counter kits available that allows you to put gel in a tray and then sit the tray on your teeth to cover the enamel surfaces. You can also have the treatment done professionally in the dental office.
The Minor Risks and Side Effects of Too much Fluoride
Even though it makes your enamel stronger it can on rare occasions make your bones brittle. Excessive fluoride applications have discolored teeth or have created small white spots or streaks in the enamel. You could develop minor skin irritations and it has caused early puberty in young girls. It has been known to cause some cardiovascular problems and even some neurological problems that can lead to ADHD. It has caused problems in the thyroid gland and if an excessive amount of fluoride is taken it causes abdominal pain, excessive saliva, nausea and vomiting. The message here is not only that of balance but also moderation.
The Benefits of Fluoride
By being aware and developing a proactive, preventative approach to your oral hygiene habits it can save all kinds of unnecessary reactive problems, beginning with cavities. You should consider following the health industries advise of scheduling dental examinations twice a year. This is another element of being proactive. The addition of x-rays to monitor your health below the gumline, professional teeth cleaning and then a concluding fluoride treatment will make you very happy and proud of your healthy smile. It will also give you a chance to review your diet and your foolish pleasures that can accelerate this daily attack on your teeth.
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