If you could look at your teeth on a microscopic level, you would find that the enamel layer of each of your teeth is made up of dense mineral structures. As you go through the course of an average day the acidic nature of certain foods and beverages, as well as the bacteria in your mouth, work to degrade these mineral structures. This process known as demineralization, if left unchecked, can lead to issues with tooth decay and sensitivity.
Copious amounts of research have found that this process of demineralization can be countered by increased exposure to fluoride. This effectively replaces any lost mineral structures in the tooth enamel in a process known as remineralization.
If you have issues with tooth sensitivity, tooth decay, or it’s clear that you lack sufficient fluoride in your daily activities, Dr. Nidal Obeid might prescribe fluoride supplements.
Fluoride supplements come in a variety of forms including sublingual tabs, gels, mouth rinse or a concentrated fluoride toothpaste.
Ingested fluoride supplements should be taken at the prescribed time. In the case of concentrated fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinse, it’s best to apply them to your teeth right before going to sleep, or at a time when you can avoid eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes to an hour. This will allow the fluoride to deeply penetrate the microscopic pores in your tooth enamel.
All of this is in addition to brushing your teeth with a brand of toothpaste that has added fluoride as part of your oral hygiene.
If you are interested in learning more about fluoride supplements, and how you can get more fluoride in your typical day, you should call Dr. Nidal Obeid at 773-327-6500 to set up an appointment.
