What are Fluoride Treatments?
Fluoride is a vital element to preventing tooth decay, and
protecting the health of your smile. For the most part, many patients get
enough fluoride through the water that they drink and the dental products that
they use. However, there are certain circumstances when additional fluoride
treatments are beneficial. Children and adults alike can benefit from fluoride
treatments done in our office.
Why are Fluoride Treatments needed?
We may recommend fluoride treatment if you do not get enough
fluoride through the water you drink and the products you use. Children can
especially benefit from fluoride treatments, since they are more susceptible to
developing cavities. If you already have a lot of fillings, and tend to get
cavities relatively easily, fluoride treatments may be a good choice for you.
The fluoride will help to strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay
What makes you a good candidate for Fluoride Treatments?
To determine if you are a good candidate for fluoride
treatments, you’ll come into our office for an exam. We can help you determine
if you would benefit from this treatment. You can request fluoride treatments
at each of your bi-annual appointments, or more often as needed. Children will
often be recommended to have fluoride treatments at every one of their checkup
appointments.
What happens during Fluoride Treatments?
We first perform an exam and cleaning as part of your
preventative care. Next, our doctor will apply a fluoride paste or foam to the
teeth. Fluoride has a slightly bitter taste that will soon dissipate as it
melts into the teeth. You will be instructed on how long to wait before
drinking and eating after having the treatment done. You can have this same
treatment done at each of your dental appointments, as a way to protect your
teeth from decay, avoiding the need for eventual fillings, root canals, and
even permanent extractions.