Fluoride is a superstar in keeping your teeth strong and healthy. You probably already get fluoride from your toothpaste and maybe even your drinking water. Sometimes, your teeth need a little extra help. That’s where professional fluoride treatments come in.
These general treatments are quick, easy, and super effective at preventing cavities and strengthening your enamel. If you’re wondering what happens during a fluoride treatment at the dentist, here’s the lowdown.
Why You Might Need a Professional Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps protect your teeth from decay. It works by strengthening the enamel, and even helps repair early decay before it turns into cavities. While most patients get enough fluoride from toothpaste and water, some folks need a little extra boost.
Here are some patients who might benefit from fluoride treatments:
- Kids and Teens: Their teeth are still developing and are more prone to cavities.
- Adults with Cavity Problems: If you’ve had a lot of cavities in the past, fluoride can help.
- Patients with Dry Mouth: Less saliva means a higher risk of tooth decay.
- Braces Wearers: It’s harder to clean teeth with braces, so fluoride can help protect them.
- Deep Grooves in Teeth: If your teeth have deep grooves, they can be tricky to clean, and fluoride can help.
If your dentist suggests a fluoride treatment, it’s because they want to give your teeth an extra layer of protection against decay.
Preparing for the Treatment
Getting a fluoride treatment is super simple and painless. It’s one of the easiest parts of a dental visit. It’s often done during your regular cleaning or checkup. Before the fluoride is applied, your dentist or hygienist will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar. This helps the fluoride stick to your teeth better and makes the treatment more effective.
Next, you’ll sit back in the chair and your dentist will explain what’s going to happen. They’ll walk you through the process to help ease any nerves you might have and you know exactly what to expect.
How a Dentist Applies Fluoride
The dental professional can apply fluoride during a professional treatment a few different ways. Your dentist will choose the best method for you based on your age, dental history, and specific needs.
- Fluoride Varnish: This is a sticky substance that’s painted onto your teeth with a small brush. It dries quickly and forms a protective layer that helps prevent decay.
- Fluoride Gel or Foam: These are usually placed in a mouth tray that fits over your teeth. You’ll bite down on the tray for a few minutes to let the fluoride soak into your enamel.
No matter which method they use, the whole process is quick and usually takes about five minutes. It doesn’t hurt at all, and most patients find it pretty comfortable.
After the Treatment
You’ll need to avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes after a fluoride treatment. This gives it time to fully absorb into your teeth and do its job. If you had fluoride varnish, your teeth might feel a little sticky or rough at first, but don’t worry. It’ll wear off as you brush your teeth over the next few days.
Why Fluoride Treatments Are Worth It
Fluoride treatments are a great way to give your teeth an extra layer of protection. They’re especially helpful if you’re at a higher risk for cavities or if you just want to keep your smile as healthy as possible. Plus, they’re quick, painless, and easy to fit into your regular dental visits.
At Smile Land Family Dental in San Antonio, we’re all about helping you keep your teeth strong and healthy. If you think you might benefit from a fluoride treatment or just want to learn more, give us a call at 210-939-9689. We’re here to help you take the best care of your smile!