Protect Your Teeth With Fluoride
Visiting your dentist twice a year is essential to your oral health. During your biannual dental cleanings at Briglia Dental Group, dentists may apply fluoride to your teeth to protect and prevent future damage.
Find out more about fluoride treatments by scheduling your next dental cleaning appointment with our West Chester family dentist, Dr. Ron Briglia. Call (610) 615 0160 if you’re new or dial (610) 692 4440 if you’re returning.
What Are Fluoride Treatments?
Fluoride treatments include applying fluoride to your teeth to strengthen the enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in water, food, and soil. It’s added to toothpaste, mouthwash, and drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. At your routine dental cleaning appointment, our dentist will offer a professional fluoride treatment. It usually takes just a few minutes to apply, and you can resume normal activities immediately afterward.
The Benefits of Fluoride Treatments
There are several benefits to fluoride treatments, including:
- Prevents Tooth Decay: Fluoride can prevent tooth decay by strengthening the tooth enamel and making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth.
- Reduces Sensitivity: It can reduce tooth sensitivity by strengthening the enamel and blocking exposed dentin tubules.
- Helps Remineralize Teeth: Fluoride treatments can also remineralize teeth that have been damaged by acid attacks, which can help reverse the early stages of tooth decay.
When Are Fluoride Treatments Necessary?
Dentists usually recommend fluoride treatments for individuals who are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, including:
- Children and Teenagers: They’re more prone to tooth decay because their teeth are still developing and aren’t as strong as adult teeth.
- Individuals with Dry Mouth: A dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay as saliva helps neutralize the acid in the mouth.
- Individuals with a History of Cavities: Individuals who have had cavities in the past are more likely to develop them in the future.
- Individuals with Braces or Other Orthodontic Appliances: Braces and other orthodontic appliances can make it more difficult to clean teeth properly, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
Types of Fluoride Treatment
- Topical Fluoride: This is applied directly to the teeth in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish. It’s often used in dental offices during routine cleanings or checkups.
- Fluoride Mouthwash: A fluoride mouthwash is used to rinse the mouth after brushing and flossing. It’s widely available over the counter and can be used at home.
- Prescription Fluoride Toothpaste: This toothpaste contains a higher concentration of fluoride than regular toothpaste and is available only by prescription. It’s often recommended for people who are at high risk of tooth decay.
- Fluoride Supplements: Fluoride supplements are available in tablet or liquid form and are taken orally. They’re often recommended for children who don’t have access to fluoridated water.
- Fluoride Varnish: Fluoride varnish is a thick, sticky paste that’s painted onto the teeth. It dries quickly and is often used on children or people with sensitive teeth.
How the Fluoride Treatment Process Works
The fluoride treatment process is simple and painless. Before fluoride is applied, Dr. Briglia or our hygienist will perform a dental cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar buildup. From there, they’ll apply a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish to your teeth using a brush, swab, or tray. Dr. Briglia will recommend keeping the fluoride in your mouth for a few minutes to allow it to absorb into your teeth. After a few minutes have passed, you can rinse your mouth to remove any excess fluoride.
Caring for Your Teeth After Fluoride Treatments
After your fluoride treatment, follow these tips to ensure the best results:
- Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes afterward.
- Don’t brush your teeth or rinse your mouth for at least four to six hours after the treatment.
- Avoid consuming foods or drinks that are high in sugar or acid.
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove any food particles or plaque that may have accumulated in between your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
