I get where you’re coming from on the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach, but I’m not totally convinced that skipping fluoride is always a safe bet, especially for adults.
“Fluoride, though—I used to think it was just for kids, but apparently it helps with sensitivity and root exposure. Still, I skipped it last time and didn’t notice any difference except a few bucks saved.”
Thing is, you might not notice an immediate change, but some of that stuff is more about long-term prevention than quick results. I started getting those little white spots near my gums a few years back (dentist called them “incipient lesions”—basically pre-cavity), and she said fluoride varnish can actually help stop them from turning into full-blown cavities. I rolled my eyes at first (just another upsell?), but after a couple rounds and better brushing, they haven’t gotten worse.
Not saying everyone needs all the extras every visit, but I guess some of these treatments aren’t just modern fluff. Maybe it’s more about knowing your own risks? If you’ve never had issues, you’re probably fine. But for those of us with “vintage” teeth and some battle scars, the extra protection doesn’t hurt.
I’m still trying to wrap my head around the idea that fluoride is more than just a “kids’ thing”—I always thought it was something you outgrew, like cartoon band-aids. But then my hygienist pointed out some early signs of enamel wear (she called them “demineralization spots,” which sounds way scarier than it looks), and suddenly fluoride seemed less optional. I guess it’s one of those things where you don’t see the payoff right away, but skipping it might catch up to you later. Still, I do wonder if there’s a point where you’re just paying for peace of mind...
