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Fluoride
Fluoride is an important part of an oral care routine, because this mineral offers extra protection to the teeth against decay. While fluoride is part of many products used for at-home dental hygiene, supplementary professional fluoride treatments give another option for preventive dentistry.
At Creekside Family Dental, we offer these helpful treatments to Gahanna, OH patients who would benefit from them.
What Professional Fluoride Treatment Does
Fluoride is beneficial to your oral health both when you consume it, such as through tap water, and when you use it on the teeth, such as through toothpaste or mouthwash. Our professional treatment includes a fluoride substance we apply to your teeth.
A dentist can provide you with a different kind of fluoride treatment than you have access to from home. The professional-level solution we use has a much higher concentration of fluoride compared to the amount found in tap water or over-the-counter fluoride products. This treatment is fast, easy and affordable, making it beneficial for many patients.
During your fluoride application, we start by professionally cleaning your teeth to ensure they are free of bacteria, plaque and tartar. Then, Dr. Leffler applies the quick and convenient solution to the surfaces of the teeth.
Reasons for Professional Fluoride Treatment
Our fluoride treatment offers an added form of protection to boost your oral health and minimize dental problems. This service gives a high level of fluoride’s benefits, which include strengthening tooth enamel and protecting against bacteria. These actions help ward off tooth decay to prevent cavities. It’s a simple solution that can keep you from needing fillings or other dental work.
Fluoride treatments are recommended for everyone. Nonetheless, some people may benefit more than others from this service. These include people who do not use fluoride toothpaste or drink tap water, and people with a higher cavity risk.
Also, our dentist uses his expertise to provide a consultation and give the best treatment for your situation. He can adjust fluoride treatments as needed and apply it correctly for best results.
We want you to receive the type and level of care you choose. Talk to Dr. Leffler about your questions and concerns to decide whether supplemental fluoride is right for you.
What to Know About Fluoride Treatments
It’s a good idea to have regular fluoride treatment appointments. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends this treatment every three, six or twelve months. We can adjust the recommendation to fit your dental situation. Some patients may also receive a prescription for at-home fluoride treatments.
Our office also gives you recommendations following the treatment session. In general, we advise you to avoid eating or drinking for half an hour after the fluoride application. During this time, the fluoride is able to fully enter the teeth. After that, you can carry on as usual. Despite receiving fluoride, continue with your regular oral care routine that includes the use of fluoride toothpaste.
Make a Consultation Appointment
If you have an exam and cleaning appointment with us, you can ask about fluoride treatments during your visit. It’s easy to include this service after completing your professional cleaning. Otherwise, contact us to discuss and schedule this treatment option.
Call us to set up your next appointment.
Fluoride Treatment FAQ
Fluoride is one of the simplest, most affordable ways to protect your smile from decay. At Creekside Dental in Gahanna, OH, Dr. Will Leffler and our team offer professional fluoride treatments to help patients of all ages keep their teeth strong. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often about this quick preventive service.
Fluoride treatments benefit almost everyone, from young children still developing adult teeth to adults who want extra protection against cavities. You may benefit especially if you have a history of decay, dry mouth, or gum disease, or if you don’t drink fluoridated tap water. Dr. Leffler can review your oral health at a checkup and let you know if fluoride is a good fit for you.
Professional fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acids and bacteria that cause cavities. It can also help reverse early signs of decay before a filling is ever needed. Because the treatment is fast and painless, it’s an easy way to add another layer of protection to your smile.
Professional fluoride treatments are considered very safe. Some patients notice a mild, temporary taste from the solution, but serious side effects are rare. Swallowing large amounts of fluoride can cause stomach upset, so we recommend against eating right away.
Yes. Professional fluoride treatments have been safely used in dentistry for decades. The amount applied during treatment is carefully measured and intended to strengthen tooth enamel while minimizing the amount that’s swallowed. When used as directed, fluoride is considered safe for both children and adults.
Tap water fluoride is helpful, but it provides a much lower concentration than the level we use in the office. A professional treatment gives your teeth a concentrated boost that water alone can’t provide, especially if you’re at higher risk for cavities.
Many dental plans cover fluoride treatments, particularly for children and patients at higher risk for decay. Coverage varies, so our team is happy to help verify your benefits before your appointment.
Most patients benefit from fluoride every three, six, or twelve months, depending on individual needs. Dr. Leffler will recommend a schedule that fits you.
Ready for your next checkup? Contact Creekside Dental to schedule your appointment today.
