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Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by defending your teeth against acid attacks caused by plaque bacteria and sugars in your mouth. Amazingly, it can also reverse early tooth decay. For kids younger than 6 years, fluoride is part of the development of permanent teeth, making it difficult for acids to demineralize the teeth.

But we now know that adults can also benefit from added fluoride. Fluoride disrupts acid production in the already erupted teeth of adults, as well as children.

Some people have certain conditions that put them at increased risk of tooth decay, and so they will benefit from additional fluoride treatments. Here are some examples:

• Dry mouth conditions caused by diseases or medications. The lack of saliva makes it harder for food particles to be washed away and acids to be neutralized, putting your teeth at risk of demineralization.

• Gum recession and gum disease can expose more of your tooth and tooth roots to bacteria increasing the chance of tooth decay.

• History of frequent cavities: If you have one cavity every year or every other year, you may benefit from additional fluoride.

• Dental work present in the mouth, like crowns, bridges or braces: Some dental treatments put teeth at risk for decay at the point where the crown meets the underlying tooth structure or around the brackets of orthodontic appliances.

• Patients who are frequent snackers, eat sugary foods, or have a family history of cavities are at an increased risk of tooth decay.

• Patients who have deep pits and grooves in their teeth are prone to dental decay.

Your dentist and dental hygienist can help you know if your teeth would benefit from additional fluoride. If they would, it’s easy to have this procedure done when you’re in for your regular appointment.