You rarely hear the word “toothpaste” without it being preceded by “fluoride.” “Fluoride toothpaste” is ubiquitous for good reason.

Fluoride is a key mineral that helps your teeth stay strong. It is found in some foods and water and makes toothpastes more effective at fighting cavities. Fluoride helps teeth by making them stronger and more resistant to the detrimental acid that is formed by bacteria. Dr. Gordon West may recommend a fluoride treatment in addition to your dental cleaning.

The fluoride used in in-office treatments comes in either a gel or foam, and may be available in several flavors. The fluoride is applied directly to teeth through the use of a plastic dental tray that fits over your teeth. The tray is kept in your mouth for just a few minutes. Fluoride treatments are a quick and painless way to strengthen your teeth and preserve an attractive smile.

While many Gordon West DDS, Cosmetic & General Dentistry patients understand the importance of fluoride treatments in fortifying developing teeth in children, some do not realize the importance of fluoride for adults. For this reason, fluoride treatments are sometimes recommended to adults who are susceptible to enamel wear or cavities.

If you wonder if you or your child is getting enough fluoride, communicate with Dr. West about fluoride supplements. Dr. West will let you know if they are necessary and determine the precise supplement dosage. Don’t give your child fluoride supplements without your dentist’s counsel. Too much fluoride can lead to fluorosis which discolors teeth and, ironically, can make teeth more susceptible to cavities.

A factor that affects the amount of fluoride your youth are receiving is where you get your drinking water. Your children may not need fluoride supplements if they drink tap water from a fluoridated Colorado municipal water supply. If your family only drinks bottled water without fluoride, you may want to consider supplementation. Keep in mind that the FDA does not require bottled water companies to list the fluoride content on the bottle label and many brands sold in the Boulder area do not contain fluoride.

If your child is getting adequate levels of fluoride but continues to get cavities, communicate with Dr. West about helpful dental sealants. They have proven to be very effective at protecting the rear molars from dental caries.

Dr. West is passionate about preventative dentistry with essential twice-yearly exams and dental cleanings that may include a fluoride treatment. Call 303-665-5335 to book an exam and cleaning and be on your way to a healthy, pleasing smile!

Gordon West DDS, Cosmetic & General Dentistry is located at 1140 W South Boulder Rd, Ste 201 in Lafayette. We provide quality dental care with a comprehensive menu of general and cosmetic dental care including sedation dentistry, prepless veneers and sedation dentistry.

Gordon West is a member of the The Crown Council. You can learn more about The Crown Council at https://www.CrownCouncil.com.

Contact Gordon West DDS, Cosmetic & General Dentistry:

303-665-5335

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd, Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

Weekly Offer:

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