What Is Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acids produced by bacteria and sugary foods. Every day, your teeth go through a natural cycle of losing and regaining minerals. When too many minerals are lost, enamel becomes weak and cavities can develop. A professional fluoride treatment at our office in Palm Beach Gardens can help replenish those lost minerals and support the natural repair process before small areas of damage become larger problems.
While fluoride is found in many toothpastes and some public water supplies, a professional fluoride treatment contains a higher concentration and is applied directly to the teeth during your dental visit. This quick preventative service can benefit both children and adults, especially those who are at an increased risk for tooth decay.
Dr. Kramer and Dr. Goldvasser believe that preventative care is one of the best investments you can make in your smile. By incorporating fluoride treatment into routine preventative visits when appropriate, we can help reduce the likelihood of cavities and protect your long-term oral health.
Benefits Of Fluoride Treatment
Preventative dentistry is always easier, more comfortable and more affordable than treating dental problems after they develop. A professional fluoride treatment offers a simple way to strengthen your smile and lower your risk of future decay.
Some of the many benefits of this preventative treatment include:
Children often benefit from fluoride because their teeth are still developing and may be more vulnerable to decay. However, adults can benefit just as much, particularly if they have dry mouth, gum recession, orthodontic appliances, crowns or fillings, or a history of frequent cavities.
Because every smile is different, Dr. Kramer and Dr. Goldvasser will determine whether fluoride treatment is recommended during your preventative visit.
How Is Fluoride Applied?
Receiving a professional fluoride application is quick, comfortable and easy. In most cases, it only adds a few minutes to your routine dental appointment.
First, we will clean and examine your teeth as part of your regular preventative visit. After evaluating your oral health and cavity risk, we will determine whether fluoride is right for you.
Next, the fluoride is applied directly to the teeth. Depending on your needs, it may be placed as a varnish, foam or gel. The application is completely painless and is brushed or painted onto the surfaces of your teeth.
Once the fluoride has been applied, it begins strengthening your enamel almost immediately. We will provide simple instructions about eating or drinking afterward so the fluoride has time to fully absorb. Most patients can return to their normal daily routine shortly after leaving our office.
Because the process is so fast and comfortable, fluoride treatment is an excellent option for both children and adults during regular dental checkups.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about fluoride, you’re not alone. Our team is always happy to explain preventative services and help you make informed decisions about your family’s dental care. Here are answers to a few of the questions we hear most often.
Protect Your Family’s Smiles With Preventative Care
Healthy smiles are built through consistent preventative care. Whether you’re scheduling your child’s first dental visits or maintaining your own oral health, Dr. Lauren Kramer and Dr. Yuri Goldvasser are here to help you stay ahead of cavities with personalized recommendations, including fluoride when appropriate.
Contact Pediatric & Adult Dentistry of the Palm Beaches today at (561) 775-1011 or request an appointment online to learn how preventative dental care can help keep your family’s smiles healthy for years to come.
