If a general dentist recommends fluoride treatments, patients may express concerns about the lasting effects of fluoride. They may also wonder whether eating and drinking are possible immediately afterward. Fortunately, fluoride is one of the easiest dental treatments to undergo with little to no waiting period and great benefits in the long term. Just a few quick aftercare techniques can preserve the fluoride and maintain strong teeth.
Fluoride is a mineral that naturally strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities. Applying fluoride in a professional setting is a simple, painless task that can be accomplished in a short period of time — even over a patient’s lunch break. Fluoride may be applied through a mouthwash or varnish. Some treatments do not need any rest time, and patients can eat immediately afterward. If a patient receives a varnish, the general dentist may recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before eating and until nighttime for brushing to let the varnish adhere to the teeth.
Patients interested in maintaining the full integrity of the fluoride treatment should avoid certain foods directly after the dental visit. Items that are especially hot, cold, crunchy, sticky, hard, spicy, or acidic are better to avoid. If a patient is not sure about some foods, simply waiting half an hour before eating at all is a safe bet. After a few hours, everything is fine to eat.
While fluoride is a fantastic option to strengthen enamel and avoid decay, it can be harmful in large doses. Taking care of teeth by practicing daily oral hygiene is the most effective way to maintain great health. Brush twice each day, floss at least once, use mouthwash, and visit a general dentist biannually.
In addition to discussing aftercare, a patient should also understand how fluoride treatments benefit teeth, how to properly prepare for them, and what side effects might occur. Asking the right questions can help patients make educated decisions on treatments and overall oral health.
Fluoride treatments are beneficial to both the teeth and gums. Natural bacteria that form in the mouth gradually decay tooth enamel. Fluoride restores the minerals in teeth and makes them stronger. Fluoride can also eliminate bacteria and stop its growth, which prevents cavities from forming and gums from getting infected.
It is possible to consume too much fluoride and experience negative side effects. An overabundance of fluoride may create staining or spotting and cause teeth to grow dense but not strong. Fluoride poisoning is rare but also possible.
Fluoride is one of the easiest dental procedures. Other than brushing thoroughly before arriving at the dental office, patients do not need to prepare for fluoride.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
General Dentist in Flushing, NY
Keeping teeth strong and healthy is crucial to avoid future oral problems. Patients who are susceptible to cavities or decay may want to consider fluoride in addition to regular oral hygiene habits. Talk to a general dentist if questions still remain about the process and benefits.
Request an appointment or call Queens Family Dental at 718-954-9425 for an appointment in our Flushing office.
Many patients visiting a general dentist do not fully understand the use of dental X-rays. Patients may wonder if this type of imaging is completely necessary, and it is important to understand the risks and benefits of the procedure. Dental X-ray exposure is safer than ever before, and when patients are knowledgeable about the procedure,…
Tooth extraction frequently occurs in the office of a general dentist for a variety of reasons, including:Bacterial decayAccidental breakageOvercrowdingImpactionMost patients are more concerned about the gap the tooth leaves behind than its fate outside their mouths. An extracted tooth usually takes one of the following paths, depending on whether the dentist or the patient claims…
A general dentist often focuses on the importance of oral hygiene and how it can help the overall health of patients. There are many patients who are unaware of the impact that oral health can have on the heart’s health. The following explains how poor oral hygiene may be connected to the development of heart…
A wisdom tooth extraction is performed on the back molars, which are the last permanent teeth to erupt in the mouth. Many people do not have enough space on their jaws to accept the teeth without disrupting the position of the other teeth. This can cause many issues in the mouth.These issues necessitate the extraction…
Looking for ways to address your dental anxiety? Or maybe a family member or friend you know experiences this all-too-common problem? Communication is key for dental patients who find it difficult to go to their dental appointments, as many dentists take the extra steps necessary to help their patients relax when in need of dental…