Dental Fluoride

When fluoride is used in small amounts on a routine basis along with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene, it helps to prevent tooth decay. It encourages “remineralization,” a strengthening of weakened areas on the teeth, and prevents acid made by bacteria from breaking down the teeth, thus decreasing the chance of tooth decay.

Fluoride occurs naturally in water and in many different foods, as well as in dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels, varnishes and supplements. Use of fluoride, while controversial, has been proven safe and effective for most, and can be used based on your child’s individual risk factors for dental decay.

Your child brushes her teeth twice a day, flosses regularly, and visits the dentist every six months. But did you know that rinsing with fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – also helps keep her teeth healthy and strong?

Fluoride is effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay by coating teeth and preventing plaque from building up and hardening on the tooth’s surface.

Fluoride comes in two varieties, systemic and topical:

• Systemic fluoride is ingested, usually through a public water supply. While teeth are forming under the gums, the fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it stronger and more resistant to cavities.
• Fluoride can also be applied topically to help prevent caries (cavities) on teeth present in the mouth. It is delivered through toothpaste, mouthwash, and professional fluoride applications. Professional application of topical fluoride foam and varnishes is also a valuable tool in cavity prevention.

Receiving a fluoride treatment from your dentist

A fluoride treatment takes just a few seconds. After the treatment, patients may eat or drink right away, but we recommend not rinsing or brushing for a few hours while the fluoride sets in. Depending on your child’s oral health and risk for getting cavities, we may recommend fluoride be applied every 6 months or even monthly.

How to choose the right fluoride treatment

When choosing an at-home fluoride product (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), always check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and approved by the ADA based on safety and effectiveness.