There are many different things that can contribute to your tooth developing a cavity. Likewise, there are many different factors that go into successfully preventing it. For instance, brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once stops oral bacteria from becoming strong enough to cause tooth decay. Being conscious of how much sugar you consume can also significantly lower your chances. The goal of most methods is to preserve the health and integrity of your tooth enamel, and fluoride treatments with your Katy, TX, dentist can help ensure the success of that goal.
What Is a Cavity?
A cavity is the common the name for the hole that forms in your tooth when oral bacteria infect its structure – a condition known as tooth decay. This decay is only possible when your tooth enamel (the protective layer of minerals that surrounds your teeth) has become compromised. Oral bacteria therefore constantly attack your tooth enamel by producing acids from the sugar and carbs you eat. Once enamel is weak enough, harmful bacteria can get past it and cause a cavity in your tooth’s main structure.
What Does Fluoride Do?
Tooth enamel is highly resilient because of the unique mineral strands that it’s made of. For instance, most of it is calcium, which forms crystals that effectively protect your main tooth structure from any damage by force or infection by oral bacteria. Fluoride, which is also a mineral, interacts with these strands and the proteins that form enamel. When applied to your teeth’s surfaces, fluoride boosts the strength of your enamel by bonding with the weakened mineral strands.
Ask Your Dentist if Fluoride Treatment Is a Good Idea
With the help of fluoride treatment, your daily hygiene and regular preventive dental routines will have a better chance at preventing cavities from forming. To learn more, or to find out if your teeth can benefit from fluoride treatment, schedule an appointment by calling Lathrop Dental Center in Katy, TX at 832-437-3849. We proudly welcome patients and families from Katy, Fulshear, Weston Lakes, Simonton, Richmond, Rosenberg, Brookshire, Wallis, Orchard, Cypress, Sealy, Columbus, and all surrounding communities.
