Fluoride Treatments: What to Know

Fluoride, a well-documented defender of tooth enamel and a formidable opponent against harmful bacteria has played a pivotal role in the reduction of tooth decay since its incorporation into various dental products like toothpaste in the 1960s. Additionally, it has been introduced into the public drinking water supplies of numerous communities throughout the United States.

You may wonder if you already use fluoride toothpaste and have access to fluoridated water, why our Designing Smiles Dentistry dentist recommends a topical fluoride treatment during your visit?

There’s a compelling rationale behind our practice offering this additional application of this essential natural mineral to our patients, encompassing both children and adults. The fluoride variety we employ in our clinic is administered at professional strength, directly onto the teeth and exposed roots. This supplementary layer of fortification provides an added defense against cavities, which still pose a prevalent threat to the general population, particularly among children and adolescents.

The process involves swift, safe, and painless application following a patient’s professional cleaning. It can take the form of a gel, foam, or varnish, with only a minimal amount applied and negligible direct ingestion. Detailed instructions on the waiting period after treatment before eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing will be provided to each patient.

However, it’s essential to understand that a professional fluoride application does not substitute for your regular brushing and flossing routine or the necessity of routine checkups and cleanings with your dentist. Nothing can replace the steadfast commitment to a consistent oral hygiene regimen when safeguarding the invaluable health of your pearly whites.

At Designing Smiles Dentistry, our dentist remains dedicated to offering our patients the latest treatment options, with topically applied fluoride being just one of them. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office today to schedule an appointment or seek further information. Your oral health remains our paramount concern!