Why does my orthordontist ask me to us Phos Flur Gel when I have braces?!
Question:
Why does my orthordontist ask me to us Phos Flur Gel when I have braces?
Why does my orthordontist ask me to us Phos Flur Gel when I have braces? Basically its just a gel with extra sodium fluoride for cavity protection I guess. But he says it can prevent white spots? So does sodium fluoride also prevent staining?
Answers:
Your orthodontist wants you to use the Phos Flur Gel to prevent decay around your brackets and in between your teeth. Because of the brackets being in place it is more difficult (even if you are being extra careful) to be good with homecare and as a result it is easier to get cavities or areas of decalcification. Decalcification is the beginning of cavities and in a severe case can lead to many cavities and in a lesser case lead to have permanent white squares on your teeth (from where the brackets were) once the brackets come off. If either of these are a problem the only way to fix them is to do bonding (placing a white filling) to repair or cover the areas. These can be costly, time consuming and will need to be replaced multiple times during your lifetime. They also don't change colors (get whiter) when you whiten your teeth. So do yourself the favor of having excellent hygiene and using your fluoride... Good luck!
JAMRDH - a dental hygienist