Oral health is a very essential part of your overall health. Fluoride treatment is the most effective treatment used to strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. It is easy, quick and less invasive and can be able to make your enamel stronger, prevent tooth decay, and improve your long-term oral health.
What is Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride therapy is a dental treatment in which the dentist applies a professionally measured amount of fluoride to your teeth. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has many oral benefits and reduces the risk of tooth decay. It is for both children and adults. Fluoride is found in tap water, food, and dietary supplements. The Bel Air MD Dentist offers fluoride treatment for children and adults with the latest tools and technology.
Types of Fluoride
Fluoride is found in food and tap water and can be used in toothpaste and as a mouthwash. Lesser amounts of fluoride are available as mouthwashes, while higher fluoride is available in the tablet form only on the prescription of the dentist.
- Foam: It is placed in a special tray and fitted over your tooth.
- Varnish: Applied directly with a brush on the tooth surface.
- Gel: painted onto your teeth or applied using a custom tray.
Available Fluoride Treatments
These are the few fluoride treatments that are available at Bel Air MD Dentists.
Topical Fluoride
Topical fluoride is directly applied to the surface of teeth. It helps in strengthening the enamel and prevents tooth decay. It works by remineralizing weakened enamel and protecting against acid attacks by plaque and sugars. Toothpastes and oral rinses are common sources of fluoride. Fluoride varnishes, gels or foams are directly applied to the teeth of patients who are at a higher risk of cavities. It is commonly used during dental cleanings.
Systemic Fluoride
Systemic fluoride is directly absorbed into the body by drinking water and eating food. It makes teeth stronger internally. The best source of fluoride is tap water. Systemic fluoride is essential in childhood during permanent teeth development. The dentists advise fluoride products for complete safety.
Over-the-Counter Products
This treatment can be done at home. Fluoride toothpaste is widely used during dental checkups. Some fluoride mouthwashes that are available without a dentist’s prescription are used once a day to keep the teeth strong and reduce the risk of cavities.
Fluoride Treatment Process
Teeth Cleaning
First of all, our dentists examine your teeth and suggest a treatment plan. They will clean your teeth and remove plaque from your teeth. This process ensures maximum fluoride absorption.
Fluoride Application
Fluoride is subsequently applied by applying a gel, foam or varnish with a brush, swab, tray or rinse. It is flavored to enhance the overall dental experience.
Absorption Time
Fluoride is applied to the teeth and left there for several minutes. You may be asked to avoid rinsing, eating, or drinking for 30 minutes to allow proper absorption
Post-Treatment Care
Follow your dentist’s instructions to prevent your teeth from tartar after treatment. Avoid hard foods immediately after treatment.
Benefits of Fluoride Treatment
- It reduces the risk of cavities up to 70%
- It strengthen the weak enamel of teeth
- Prevents early tooth decay
- It is painless and less invasive
- It is safe for both children and adults.
Fluoride for Children
Children are especially susceptible to cavities, and fluoride is also important in erupting permanent dentition to maintain strength. Fluoride treatment in children is a non-invasive dental procedure and can be carried out every 3 to 6 months, particularly for those kids who have tooth decay. Fluoride varnish, commonly used in pediatric care, is fast-drying and easy to apply, remaining on the teeth until it is brushed off later at home.
Treatment cost and Insurance
Fluoride treatment is one of the most budget-friendly dental procedures. Its cost varies and depends upon the clinic’s location and expertise. The average cost of Fluoride treatment at Bel Air MD Dentists is $30 to $60 for a single visit. Most of the dental insurance plans cover fluoride treatment costs, particularly in children below 18
Although it may not be covered, this investment could help in saving money in the future.
FAQs
Is fluoride treatment safe?
Yes, fluoride treatment is completely safe. It is applied by the dentist to your teeth and uses regulated doses of fluoride that are effective without causing any damage to teeth.
Does insurance cover fluoride treatments?
Most dental insurances cover fluoride treatments only for children, and some plans may cover treatment for adults. You should read the policies before getting any insurance
Do children need fluoride treatments?
Yes, children are especially at risk for cavities. Regular fluoride treatments help strengthen their teeth and protect them from decay.
Can fluoride prevent tooth decay?
Fluoride reverses at an early stage. It remineralizes the enamel before cavity formation. But it cannot fix cavities later.
