Dental Uses of Fluoride

The use of fluoride in dentistry is arguably the most significant prevention factor in dental decay. Fluoride was first introduced to the water supply in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1945. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, children living in this area during the time of fluoridation had a 60 percent decrease in cavities. Fluoride can be used both topically and systemically to reduce decay rates. There are other applications for fluoride use in dentistry as well.

General information

• Systemic fluoride prevents decay by adding a stronger layer to the enamel during the formation of the teeth. Topical fluoride adds an additional layer to an already existing tooth, which strengthens and prevents decay. It can also strengthen areas that have already started to demineralize by filling in these areas with fluoride crystals. This is called remineralization. The three types of fluoride used in dentistry are stannous, acidulated phosphate and sodium fluoride. Fluoride is contained in gels, rinses and pastes. Prescription strength types are often applied in a dental setting or sent home with the patient for at-home application. Over the counter types can be purchased at the store.

Topical Caries Prevention

• Topical use of fluoride is accomplished through direct contact with exposed surfaces of teeth. Dental offices use prescription-strength fluoride gels, rinses and brush-on applications for patients with high rates of decay. Children are usually given this type of fluoride treatment one time a year but more often when necessary. There are also over-the-counter uses of fluoride including toothpastes and rinses. These can be purchased at a drug store and used at home as part of a patient's home care regime.

Systemic Caries Prevention

• The use of fluoride systemically is by entry into the blood supply of developing teeth. This form of fluoridation would include the addition of the mineral into the community water supply as a public health measure to decrease the decay rate. Fluoride tablets and drops are also prescribed by dentists and pediatricians when the patient's main source of water does not have adequate amounts of fluoride. It is important to have your water tested because too much fluoride can cause fluorosis of the teeth, which can include tiny white streaks on teeth to cracking of teeth.

Sensitivity

• When recession of the gum causes the root surface of the tooth to be exposed, sensitivity can become severe. Fluoride use can help reduce sensitivity. Often a dentist will prescribe fluoride mouth rinse. This puts a protective layer over the exposed nerve tubules that are leading to the sensitivity. A more immediate option is for a dental professional to apply a fluoride varnish to the patient's teeth. This is done by swabbing a sticky fluoride substance over the sensitive areas of the tooth. The varnish serves the same purpose as the rinses but takes effect quicker.