Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is not an artificial compound or some sort of medication, but rather a naturally-occurring mineral that’s found in rocks and soil, vegetables and grains, as well as in fresh and salt water. The fluoride found in the environment however is not sufficient on its own to protect your teeth, which is why small supplemental amounts are added to the water supply, as well as into toothpaste, gels and other dental products.
Fluoride is crucial to combating tooth decay. It gives your teeth extra strength when they’re developing so they’re better able to resist the bacterial acid that causes tooth decay and it slows the growth of bacteria in your mouth known as plaque which leads to tooth decay.
While brushing with fluoridated toothpaste is the most effective way to receive fluoride, taking it through tap water has a considerable effect on the ability of your teeth to fight decay. If you need a fluoride top-up, and most people in fluoridated areas won’t, your dentist can apply high-fluoride products such as gels, foams and varnishes to your teeth.
First-Time Patient?
Pristine Dentistry has been providing exceptional, high quality dental care to the community for over 35 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need regular check-up?
Regular check-ups are highly important and recommended to avoid costly surprises and prevent problems. If you are aware of a problem early, you will have time to choose the best treatment option. Where if you have a dental emergency, getting you out of pain is the main priority. If a problem is dealt with in an early stage, the treatment is more successful and it can save you a lot of money and time.
I clean my teeth at home, why do I need a professional clean?
Even though you brush and floss your teeth daily, it is very important for your overall health and recommended that you have a professional clean every 6 months. However, some people will require more frequent appointments, especially if periodontal disease is present and being managed. When plaque remains on your teeth, it combines with your saliva to harden into tartar or calculus. If left untreated you can develop bleeding gums, bad breath, a receding gum line and eventually teeth mobility. Getting your teeth cleaned and polished, not only gives you a great smile but it also prevents future decay, gum disease and bad breath.
Is fluoride effective?
Yes, fluoride strengthens the teeth and has been clinically proven to lower decay rates significantly. Fluoride can also reverse early decay and combat sensitivity. Professionally applied fluoride is a lot stronger than what you can get in a toothpaste and our therapist and hygienist selects the right fluoride treatment for keeping your teeth healthier and stronger.
Why do I need X-Rays?
Dental x-rays are a valuable tool in examining and screening the teeth and gums, especially as they can see more than the naked eye.
Bitewing x-rays are taken on the left and right side of your mouth and are recommended to be taken every 2 years. These x-rays show between your teeth, detecting any early decay, which if detected early enough, could be stopped and reversed without the need of a filling.
OPG x-rays is a panoramic view of your whole mouth, showing your teeth, jawbone, joints, and sinuses. It shows us areas beyond the reach of the smaller bitewing x-rays, like the presence of your wisdom teeth even before they start to erupt and cause and damage. It is recommended to have your OPG x-rays updated every 3 years.
Are dental x-rays safe?
Our dental x-rays have an extremely low radiation dose, while giving the highest resolution images. The radiation dose from an x-ray from our machine is the same dose you would get if you were to eat around 20 bananas. Nevertheless we are committed in our practice to use aiming devices and lead aprons if required to ensure your safety.