You visit your dentist twice a year for hygiene visits and cleanings. You brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day just your dentist recommends. You presume you’re doing all the right things to keep a healthy and bright smile. And yet, you may be making a big mistake which might seem counterintuitive at first.
WHAT’S THE MISTAKE?
New research suggest rinsing your mouth after brushing your teeth can be problematic. According to Clement Seeballuck and Professor Nicola Innes, experts in pediatric dentistry, you are washing away the fluoride deposited by your toothpaste when you rinse after a brush. It doesn’t matter if you are rinsing mouthwash or water. They say not rinsing can lower risk of tooth decay by up to 25%.
“I actually agree with this. The longer the fluoride stays on your teeth the better,” said Dr. Jason Kboudi, Advanced Smile Care. “I think the fluoride is always beneficial for cavity prevention.”
WHY IS FLUORIDE IMPORTANT?
A variety of foods and drinks attack our teeth every day. These foods and drinks contain sugar, which produces acids that attack the outer layer of teeth. Over time, the layer erodes and opens the door for cavities and decay.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), using toothpaste with fluoride and drinking water with fluoride has multiple benefits. The ADA says research shows fluorinated water consumption increases cavity protection.
GETTING MORE FLUORIDE IN YOUR LIFE
Dental hygienists apply a higher concentration of fluoride on you when you visit the dentist for a check-up.. It’s a topical treatment that typically comes in a foam, gel, or varnish. They will, at times, apply the formula over the teeth in a series of applications. You may have received this treatment after a teeth cleaning.
CONTACT ADVANCED SMILE CARE
Advanced Smile Care offers a full range of top-tier dental services, including routine hygiene and preventative appointments. We have performed sedation dentistry over the last 35 years in San Antonio on thousands of patients who are anxious about dental treatment. Our team is specially trained to make your sedation experience as comfortable and as safe as possible. Call us at 210-366-3606 to book your appointment.