What is fluoride for teeth?
Posted on July 8, 2025 by Dr Snehal
Many people say, "Tooth pain is one of the worst types of pain." This is often because patients typically visit the dentist when their tooth infection has reached a critical stage, damaging the internal nerve and requiring extensive dental procedures.
But what if I told you, "You can prevent tooth cavities! You can also prevent tooth pain!" Isn’t that great? Yes, it’s possible! You can prevent dental decay by up to 70% through the use of fluoride as a preventive measure. Small children are the best candidates to start this therapy.
*Why Choose Fluoride Therapy?*
Fluoride is a chemical element that gets absorbed by the hydroxyapatite crystals present in the outermost layer of the tooth, called enamel. It forms "fluorapatite," a stable compound that helps protect against acid attacks. This is how fluoride protects teeth from dental decay.
Types of Fluoride Treatments
There are basically two types of fluoride therapies that are used for preventive care:
- Pit and Fissure Sealants
- APF Gel Therapy
The surface of our teeth is not smooth; it has many pits and fissures. This anatomical structure can trap food particles, which, if not cleaned properly, can decompose and lead to the demineralization of the enamel surface. This is known as dental decay. Pit and fissure sealants are flowable fluoride materials that can fill these pits and create a smooth, self-cleaning area. The lifespan of these sealants is up to two years, after which they can be reapplied. Ideally, this therapy should be performed on primary molars and newly erupted permanent molars.
This involves Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride (APF) gel. Using a special pediatric tray, this gel is applied to all teeth in the upper and lower jaws separately for 4 minutes each. Patients should be instructed not to eat or drink anything for the next hour. The fluoride layer will remain on the tooth surfaces for approximately 6 months. Diet also plays an essential role in maintaining oral and overall health. Consuming fruits, vegetables, and nuts, combined with brushing twice a day, are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth. However, in today’s era, when junk food is more prevalent, it can be challenging for parents to keep their children away from processed and packaged foods. Fluoride therapy can be a valuable resource for young children to help maintain their teeth and gums in good condition.