Topical fluoride application is a type of medical dental practice in which a high level of fluoride (in gel, foam, varnish, or rinse form) is applied directly to the tooth surfaces. This is one of the primary elements of preventive dentistry that aims to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent dental caries (cavities).
Indications
- High Caries Risk : Patients with a history of high cavity occurrence, unhealthy diet, or any oral care practices that leave the patients at high risk of developing new decay.
- Tooth Hypersensitivity : Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may be reduced by using toothpaste that fills tiny tubules in the inner layer of the teeth, known as dentin.
- Orthodontic Appliances : Patients with braces, retainers, or other appliances that make complete brushing challenging and predispose them to the buildup of plaque and the decalcification of bracket surfaces.
Effects
- Increased Enamel Remineralisation : Fluoride ions are incorporated into the tooth where they become a more resistant enamel (fluorapatite) and reverse the initial stage of demineralisation (white spots).
- Prevention of Bacterial Acid Production : Fluoride inhibits the metabolism of oral bacteria, thereby decreasing their capacity to produce acids that cause decay by breaking down the food they consume.
- Creation of a Calcium Fluoride Reservoir : A weak coating of calcium fluoride is created on the tooth surface and serves to create a slow-release reservoir of fluoride to teeth over the course of a few hours, particularly at acid attacks (low-pH).
Why Choose This Clinic
We offer personalised fluoride care as per a thorough assessment of the risk of caries, using high-quality, professional-grade fluorides to protect as much as possible and provide lasting benefits to the enamel.
Consult with us.