Fluoride Treatments
Protecting Teeth with a Preventive Coating
Fluoride is a natural mineral found within the earth. Fluoride is also present in some foods that we eat, such as fish, and also present in our water supply. Fluoride has many benefits for your teeth, but studies have long shown the use of fluoride as an effective agent in reducing tooth decay. Fluoride prevents decay in both teeth that are currently formed as well as in teeth that are still forming in children's mouths. When teeth start to break down due to acid demineralization, fluoride can help strengthen the teeth and prevent the loss of enamel.
Why Choose 21st Century Dental of Irving for Fluoride Treatment?
- Valuable Preventive Care
- Safe, High-Quality Solutions
- Comfortable Care that is Always Patient-Focused
Who benefits from fluoride the most? People who:
- Are chemotherapy and radiotherapy patients
- Take multiple medications
- Have crowns
- Have old fillings
- Have a high sugar diet
- Have a high acidic diet
- Experience tooth sensitivity
- Wear removable appliances
- Have dry mouth
- Have receding gums
- Are undergoing orthodontic treatment
The only and BEST prevention for root cavities is fluoride, and the best and most reliable fluoride delivery is immediately after your cleaning. This is due to the natural biofilm layer that lies over the teeth, which your body will recoat with within 24 hours after your cleaning. The best time for fluoride is at the end of your cleaning since fluoride does not penetrate the biofilm layer well.
Not only does fluoride help prevent decay, it will also:
- Kill bacteria within plaque and slow the colonization of pathogens
- Reduce the volume of plaque
- Decrease sensitivity
What is Fluoride Varnish?
Fluoride varnish is a protective coating that is painted on teeth to help prevent new cavities and to help stop cavities that have already started.
The paint-on fluoride varnish is sticky, so it attaches to the teeth easily and makes the outer layer (enamel) of the teeth harder, helping to prevent cavities.
All patients who have had a lot of dental work in their mouth also can benefit from fluoride as it protects the margins of the dental work where decay can easily start again. Fluoride varnish can also reduce teeth sensitivity.
Fluoride Treatment FAQs
What Age Should Fluoride Varnish be Applied?
Fluoride varnish is recommended for children and adults of all ages.
How is Fluoride Varnish Applied to Teeth?
The fluoride varnish is easily painted on the teeth with a small disposable brush. It is quick, painless, and comes in different flavors.
How Long Does Fluoride Varnish Last?
The fluoride varnish sticks to the teeth until it is brushed away after 4-6 hours; however, the benefits of the fluoride will last for several months. Fluoride varnish needs to be reapplied every three to four months for best results.
Is Fluoride Varnish Safe?
Yes, fluoride varnish can be used on babies from the time they have their first teeth. Only a very small amount of fluoride varnish is used.