What is Fluoride Deficiency and How Can You Prevent It?
Posted on 1/25/2021 by Barbara Ketchum
If your teeth are not weak, no amount of brushing and flossing may save them from cavities. According to the American Dental Association, fluoridated water has helped in reducing dental decay in over 25% of children and adults. However, if you have a fluoride deficiency, it can result in serious health risks for your teeth. At Oak Park Dental, Dan O'Leary DDS and Carl Stubblefield DMD, and Paul Brannen DMD can help you understand the importance of fluoride on your dental health.
Symptoms of Fluoride Deficiency
Fluoride is a mineral compound found in rocks and soil. This compound is also essential for our dental health and prevents tooth decay. Our tooth enamel constantly undergoes loss of enamel or demineralization. By using fluoride, we can help rebuild the lost enamel and make our teeth strong again.
However, when our body does not get sufficient fluoride, it can result in fluoride deficiency. Hence, when bacteria interact with sugar in our food, it produces acid which can more easily destroy the enamel of our teeth.
Hence, weak enamel due to lack of fluoride is one of the major causes of tooth decay.
Fluoride Treatment
If you have a fluoride deficiency, Dan O'Leary DDS and Carl Stubblefield DMD, and Paul Brannen DMD at Oak Park Dental can diagnose it and prescribe treatment options for it. These include:
•
Topical Application: You can apply fluoride topically with different kinds of toothpaste and mouth rinse at any time in your own home.
•
Fluoride in Bloodstream: Make a habit of consuming fluoridated water, consume food like shellfish, grapes, and spinach, or get fluoride supplements for your deficiency.
•
Prescription Supplements: We may also prescribe you a fluoride supplement to manage the deficiency.
•
Professional Fluoride Treatment: At Oak Park Dental, we can offer you a professional fluoride treatment by applying fluoride in a gel, foam, or varnish form on your teeth.
The biggest concern with weakened teeth is tooth decay. Tooth decay is also associated with gum disease, which in turn is linked with several health conditions. If you think you have fluoride deficiency, get an appointment with us today by calling us at (971) 600-0211 and we will diagnose your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.
If your teeth are not weak, no amount of brushing and flossing may save them from cavities. According to the American Dental Association, fluoridated water has helped in reducing dental decay in over 25% of children and adults. However, if you have a fluoride deficiency, it can result in serious health risks for your teeth.