Fluoride therapy
Fluoride Therapy
Fluoride therapy is a medical treatment that uses fluoride to prevent or treat dental caries (tooth decay). It is a common practice in dentistry and oral health care.
Pronunciation
Fluoride therapy is pronounced as "floor-ide ther-uh-pee".
Etymology
The term "fluoride" comes from the Latin word "fluere", which means "to flow". The term "therapy" comes from the Greek word "therapeia", which means "healing".
Description
Fluoride therapy involves the use of fluoride, a mineral that is naturally present in various amounts in all water sources. This therapy is often used in dentistry for the prevention of dental caries. Fluoride helps to strengthen the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth, which can lead to tooth decay.
Fluoride therapy can be administered in two ways: topically or systemically. Topical fluoride therapy involves applying fluoride directly to the teeth, such as through toothpaste, mouth rinses, or professional fluoride treatments. Systemic fluoride therapy involves ingesting fluoride, such as through fluoridated water or dietary fluoride supplements.
Related Terms
- Dental caries: Also known as tooth decay or cavities, it is a breakdown of teeth due to acids made by bacteria.
- Tooth enamel: The hard, outer surface layer of your teeth that serves to protect against tooth decay.
- Plaque: A soft, sticky film that builds up on your teeth and contains millions of bacteria.
- Fluoridated water: Public water supplies that have fluoride added to them.
- Dietary fluoride supplements: Tablets, drops, or lozenges that contain fluoride.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fluoride therapy
- Wikipedia's article - Fluoride therapy
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