Why Fluoride is Important During Orthodontic Treatment for Adults in Wappingers Falls, NY

Fluoride is an extremely important mineral for oral hygiene, especially during orthodontic treatment. It helps make the enamel stronger, and the mouth healthier, and can help prevent demineralization during treatment with braces in Wappingers Falls, NY. However, it is often associated solely with kids. This is due to the fact that fluoride intake is highly important during tooth development, since it helps build the teeth to fight decay from acids down the road. Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics wants to stress though, that while fluoride is important for children, the necessity doesn’t stop once teeth are developed. Fluoride is very important for adults in Wappingers Falls, NY as well. 

Why do adults need fluoride?

Fluoride is extremely beneficial to adults for many reasons. The first is the same reason why children are directed to use it; it makes the tooth enamel stronger. Strengthening tooth enamel means building an immunity to demineralization and acid erosion, thus keeping the teeth healthier and preventing cavities and decay. . The second is that fluoride can actually help fight pre-existing tooth decay. If you are an adult patient that has tooth decay, Drs. Cigna and Kroboth recommend increasing your fluoride intake. The increase in fluoride will speed up remineralization, building the enamel back to health and blocking acid production in the future. Finally, fluoride is important for adults because it is a great way to prevent the damages certain oral diseases can cause. For example, an adult suffering from dry mouth conditions or gum disease may experience damages to the teeth as a side effect. Dr. Cigna and Dr. Kroboth say continuing to have good fluoride levels will prevent some of these damages, and ensure that the teeth are strong and healthy.

Where can you get fluoride from?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element, that is found in water and in many foods. Additionally, fluoride is often added to the local drinking water. Often, orthodontic patients in Wappingers Falls, NY will find that just drinking fluoridated water can be enough. However there are also products out there that have fluoride added. Adults who are looking to increase their fluoride intake should be sure to buy a toothpaste with added fluoride, or use a fluoridated mouth wash. These products will help to ensure that adults are getting enough fluoride, and keeping their mouths in the best possible health. If you have any questions about how much fluoride you should be adding to your oral care, or want to know which products we recommend, call Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics at (845) 227-7880.