FLUORIDE
The greatest benefit in preventive dentistry is the last 50 years is the use of fluoride. This has had the effect of reducing cavities enormously, especially in the young.
There are benefits in the use of fluoride for people of all ages. Fluoride joins onto the enamel of teeth and alters the physical chemistry to be better able to resist acid attack from either dietary sources e.g fizzy drinks and fruit juices, or that formed by dental plaque.
Fluoride can help to repair very small cavities by rebuilding the enamel. In older patients fluoride can help to prevent the problem of root caries or root sensitivity.
We recommend fluoride tooth pastes for all of our patients. The efficacy of the fluoride in protecting the enamel is related to the frequency of its application. We also recommend fluoride rinses, which are most effective last thing at night after the teeth have been cleaned.
After brushing or rinsing teeth it is very important not to rinse with water. It is better to leave the fluoride in contact with the enamel to make it harder. If using rinses, it is recommended to stick to manufacturers instructions for use.