{"id":222,"date":"2022-09-29T16:22:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-29T16:22:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.springfielddentist.net\/blog\/?p=222"},"modified":"2022-10-24T16:23:37","modified_gmt":"2022-10-24T16:23:37","slug":"do-adults-need-fluoride-treatments","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.springfielddentist.net\/blog\/do-adults-need-fluoride-treatments\/","title":{"rendered":"You Asked, We Answered: Do Adults Need Fluoride Treatments?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Fluoride is a hot topic in the world of dentistry. In short, this naturally occurring mineral does wonders for preventing tooth decay in the right doses, which is why it\u2019s added to toothpaste, mouthwash, and other oral hygiene products. Growing up, you might have even had fluoride treatments<\/a> at the end of your routine checkups to provide your teeth with additional protection. But do adults need fluoride treatments as well? Keep reading for the answer!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

So, Do Adults Need Fluoride Treatments?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In short, the answer is \u201cyes!\u201d The need for fluoride treatments isn\u2019t based on age, but rather the patient\u2019s vulnerability to cavities. Since children often need an additional layer of protection from decay as their fine motor skills develop, it\u2019s not surprising that most people think of children\u2019s dentistry when they hear \u201cfluoride treatment.\u201d However, adults can benefit from this cavity-preventing solution just as much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Do Fluoride Treatments Work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As previously mentioned, fluoride is well known for its cavity-preventing effects, making it extremely popular in the dental community. Through years of extensive studies, researchers have found that it works best to fight decay when applied topically. That\u2019s why your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment at the end of your biannual visit! Since your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned, the fluoride can effectively cover the entire surface, minimizing your risk of oral health problems in the future. The best part? You can enjoy all of the benefits of this tooth-preserving mineral and the treatment only takes a few minutes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Will I Know If I Need a Fluoride Treatment?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

At the end of your dental checkup and cleaning, you can ask your dentist or dental hygienist directly if they think you could benefit from fluoride treatment. However, in most cases, they will bring it to your attention if you\u2019ve had a filling in the last year, you have restorations (like a dental crown or veneer), you\u2019ve struggled with cavities in the past, or something similar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5 Additional Ways to Keep Your Smile Decay-Free<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Of course, fluoride treatments aren\u2019t the only way you can protect your smile from decay. Here are a few other best practices you should implement into your oral hygiene regimen:<\/p>\n\n\n\n