Fluoride is often touted as being something that can prevent tooth decay. Its addition to toothpaste and other dental products does help to protect the teeth against cavities, but good dental health is still reliant on regular check-ups with Dr Rik Trivedi, or another dentist in Kent, as well as great dental care at home.
At the moment much of Britain does not receive fluoridated water, but a recent survey carried out by the British Dental Health Foundation has found that nearly 80% of people in Britain would support its addition to the water supply. Just one tenth of the population currently receives fluoridated water.
Its possible addition to the water supply was described by the chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter OBE, as being one of the most important things to help improve the oral health of the nation. Fluoride is a mineral that can occur naturally in water, and which is found in some foods. It is also something that may be applied to your teeth during dental check-ups to help harden the tooth surfaces, especially if you have quite thin tooth enamel, or have teeth that are especially sensitive. But could it help to reduce the need for dental implants in Kent?
The answer to this is not on its own. Using fluoride toothpaste or drinking fluoridated water will help to give some protection against tooth decay, but you do have to make sure you brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes each day, and that you continue to floss once a day. Regular check-ups will help us to pick up any small lesions or pits in your teeth that could indicate the beginnings of a cavity, and if you have children then we may recommend fluoride applications to help prevent cavities from forming. We also like to seal children’s permanent back teeth once they have all erupted. Dental sealants are quick to apply, and help to protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth from decay, as these areas are especially vulnerable. Even though fluoride is useful for children and adults, our dentists in Kent may not necessarily recommend its use for very young children below the age of two, so it is well worth asking us for advice.
Our dental team are always more than willing to answer any questions you might have about dental health, as preventative care is very important to us. If you know you are overdue for a check-up then why not give us a call to book an appointment on 01474 537191. You can also read more about preventative dental care on our website on www.parrockdental.co.uk.