You’ve heard fluoride is bad for you, but it’s in your toothpaste and your water. Is it really bad for you? It is possible to reach fluoride toxicity, a situation in which your body has too much of this mineral. However, the right amount of fluoride can help to ensure your teeth remain healthy and strong. Some people even need a
fluoride treatment to add more of this mineral to their teeth. Where do you stand? If you notice fluoride side effects, be sure to reach out to your doctor for help. For all others, our Houston dentist at Supreme Dentistry can help you.
What Is Fluoride and Why Do You Need It?
Fluoride is a mineral found in plant and animal sources. Once taken in, the body absorbs it into the blood. It travels to areas where calcium is collected, including the bones and teeth. There, it helps to strengthen the teeth, creating a strong, healthy smile.
Most of the fluoride a person takes can come from their water sources, though it may also come from other beverages and dental products like mouth rinses and toothpastes. Dental products have less risk of causing health problems because the user does not swallow these.
How Does Fluoride Toxicity Happen?
Fluoride is somewhat controversial because of the low risk of developing fluoride toxicity. This occurs when a person takes in too much fluoride, and it is not absorbed properly. It is not common for this to occur. The most common cause of fluoride toxicity in the U.S. comes from ingesting fluoride products, not from water sources.
Some people develop fluoride side effects that may indicate toxicity has occurred. In large doses, a person may experience:
- White spots that develop on the surface of the teeth (a condition called dental fluorosis)
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Calcifications of ligaments (called skeletal fluorosis)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Discoloration of the teeth
What Are Fluoride Treatments?
For most people, a high level of fluoride is not likely. What is more likely to be the case is the need for a fluoride treatment, which adds more fluoride to the teeth. This is a dental procedure that may strengthen your teeth and minimize the risks of decay and damage from cavities. It is sometimes recommended for children who may not have the best dental hygiene habits.
When you see your dentist in our office, we may make our recommendations for this procedure. It is often necessary for those who have a high risk of developing dental complications down the road. Keep in mind that fluoride treatment is a type of preventative dentistry method, not a treatment.
Turn to Our Team for Comprehensive Care
At Supreme Dentistry, we offer a range of general dentistry services that can improve your smile and help safeguard your dental health for years to come. That includes fluoride treatments. If you have not been in to see your dentist in the last six months, now is the best time to give us a call. We can help you with a range of treatment options and provide you with the one-on-one care you need. Some of our treatments include:
- Emergency dental services
- Dental filling services
- Teeth cleaning services
- Dental sealant applications
- Dental extractions
- Root canal procedures
Seek Out Proper Dental Care – Call Supreme Dentistry Today
Fluoride is often misunderstood. What’s most important is to consider how important a fluoride treatment may be in your situation. If you recognize fluoride toxicity or any other fluoride side effects in yourself, seek out medical care right away. For insight into what’s best for your dental health, call Supreme Dentistry at
844.966.2333 or connect with our team online.
