Fluoride Treatment
WHAT ARE FLUORIDE TREATMENTS?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen and restore enamel and prevent tooth decay. Dentists often recommend topical fluoride treatments, which can be applied to the teeth as a foam, varnish or gel. For some adults, a prescription strength toothpaste containing higher concentrations of fluoride, or a gel, can be recommended for brushing or for use in a customized tray to use at home.
WHAT MAKES SOMEONE A CANDIDATE FOR FLUORIDE TREATMENTS?
Topical fluoride treatments, applied in the office, are recommended for children every 6-12 months to help strengthen their developing teeth and to prevent tooth decay. Many adults can also benefit from topical fluoride treatments as well. For adults with certain medical conditions and/or taking certain medications, and for those with a high decay rate, topical fluoride treatments can be even more important.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT DURING FLUORIDE TREATMENTS?
For children and most adults, our in-office, topical fluoride treatment consists of painting a thin layer of fluoride varnish on the teeth after a cleaning appointment. Patients are then instructed not to eat or drink for 30 minutes in order to allow the varnish to fully work.
For those prescribed higher concentration, fluoride toothpaste, you will brush with the toothpaste before bed, but will be instructed not to rinse after brushing to allow the fluoride in the toothpaste to work overnight.
In rare cases, some adults may be instructed to use a high concentration, fluoride gel at home in a custom made dental tray for a specified period of time.
If you would like to find out more regarding fluoride treatments, call our office today and we will be more than happy to help you further.