The cavity-fighting power of topical and systemic fluoride supplements at the dentist’s office

The Georgia Department of Public Health reports that 96% of our state’s residents who access public water systems receive water treated with fluoride. Such fluoridated water, the DPH notes, has been shown to reduce the incidence of tooth decay by 30 to 40%! This naturally occurring, cavity-fighting mineral can also be found in some fortified foods and in the toothpaste that Athens Dental Group recommends. Our dentists, Drs Drew Richardson, Brant Sandifer, and R. Lawrence George, may also recommend additional fluoride to young patients and others at risk of developing cavities and progressive decay. 

What are fluoride supplements?

Dummy Tooth

At your friendly dentist’s office, we provide an array of options to strengthen both developing teeth and those that have already erupted. Depending on the patient’s age and needs, topical or systemic fluoride may be recommended. The former option is applied mainly to the surface of the teeth. It seeps into the tooth’s protective “armor” or enamel. This process builds up the enamel to make the tooth structure more resistant to erosion, cavities, and decay. The latter systemic option strengthens existing teeth and those developing underneath the gums. 

How is fluoride applied? 

Many supplemental fluoride products are available at the dentist’s office. They include special rinses, drops, foams, gels, varnishes, and other formulations. It is important to apply any “take-home” products exactly as directed by one of our dentists. It is especially important to monitor children. They may be inclined to actually consume the fluoride. Excessive fluoride use is associated with white, chalky spots that may require cosmetic treatment later. 

Who is a good candidate for supplemental fluoride? 

Fluoride is a safe, affordable, and effective preventative measure for many individuals. In addition to integrating fluoride into your child’s routine, 6-month dental check-ups, our team may recommend treatment for those with deeply pitted and fissured teeth. These pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are decay-prone. They tend to trap food, bacteria, and other sources of decay and disease. Patients with dry mouth can also benefit from extra fluoride. These products are “helpers” for other at-risk individuals, including those with challenges to consistent good oral care at home or who consume lots of sugary, acidic, and starchy foods and drinks.Remember: Fluoride is not a substitute for good home care and regular professional care at Athens Dental Group. It is a complement to healthy habits. We encourage our friends in Watkinsville, Athens, Winder, Bethlehem, Jefferson, Winterville, Madison, and greater northeast Georgia to schedule an appointment. Call us at (706) 666-4611 today.

Dr. Brant Sandifer Best dentist near me

Dr. Brant Sandifer Connect Dr. Brant Sandifer on LinkedIn

Highly regarded local dentist Dr. Brant Sandifer graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Biology degree from the University of Georgia. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University. Since 2017, Dr. Sandifer has been dedicated to providing exceptional dental care in Athens. He is passionate about creating healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Dr. Sandifer is actively involved in the community and is trusted by his patients to provide the highest standard of dental care.
Dr. Drew Richardson Best dentist near me

Dr. Drew Richardson Connect Dr. Drew Richardson on LinkedIn

An esteemed local dentist, Dr. Drew Richardson earned his Biology degree Summa Cum Laude from the University of Georgia. As a Hinman Scholar, he graduated second in his class at the Dental College of Georgia, joining Phi Kappa Phi and Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Societies. Dr. Richardson is a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics and the L.D. Pankey study club and has advanced cosmetic training from Spear Academy. He volunteers at Georgia dental clinics such as Hope Dental Clinic and Christ Community Clinic and has participated in dental missions to Haiti.
Dr. R. Lawrence George Best dentist near me

Dr. R. Lawrence George

Dr. R. Lawrence George is a distinguished local dentist and a 1971 graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. He was one of four students exempted from their fourth year due to exceptional scholastic and clinical achievements, and he practiced at a U.S. Public Health Service Hospital before graduating. A pioneer in cosmetic dentistry, Dr. George has been trusted to place veneers since 1972, making him one of the first in the area to offer advanced cosmetic services like this.