Treatment FAQ

how long should a child wait after getting a fluoride treatment

by Dr. Allison Murray III Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

In general, patients are advised to wait 30 minutes after a fluoride treatment before eating or drinking. This 30-minutes allows time for the fluoride treatment to seal to the teeth.

Full Answer

How long after fluoride treatment can I brush my teeth?

You do not want to brush your teeth too soon because you may unintentionally scrub away the fluoride you just had applied to your teeth. Give the fluoride four to six hours before you brush to avoid scrubbing it off your teeth. There is no need to be confused about what to do after fluoride treatment.

How long after fluoride treatment can I eat?

The minimum recommendation you will hear is to wait at least 30 minutes after fluoride treatment to eat. However, in some situations, you may be advised to wait between four and six hours to eat after fluoride treatment. The specific recommendation you receive will depend on the type of fluoride treatment and your unique situation.

When should children get fluoride treatments?

Children can receive their first fluoride treatment as soon as their first tooth erupts. Routine fluoride treatments can continue to be beneficial through childhood and adulthood. In the United States, tap water and some bottled water are treated with fluoride. This provides a small amount of fluoride as people go through day-to-day life.

How long after fluoride can I drink water?

Stick with water that is lukewarm and only drink after the initial 30-minute waiting period has passed. Avoid hot liquids and dark liquids like coffee or tea for four to six hours to ensure enough time has passed for the fluoride to provide the full benefit.

What do you do after fluoride treatment?

You should avoid eating food for at least 6 hours after a fluoride treatment. If you must, then eat soft foods – greek yoghurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, ice cream, mashed bananas, and blended soups. Soft foods won't reduce the effectiveness of the fluoride treatment, unlike hard food.

What are the rules for fluoride?

Please follow the guidelines below during that time only:Do not brush or floss.Avoid hot beverages.Avoid hard or crunchy foods.Avoid products containing alcohol.Avoid other “over the counter” fluoride items such as toothpastes, gels, and rinses.

How long does fluoride varnish stay on teeth?

How long should it be left on? The coating will naturally wear away in that time period. In laboratory studies, Vanish White Varnish continues to release fluoride, calcium and phosphate for 24 hours. Patients should refrain from brushing or flossing their teeth for 24 hours to achieve the maximum benefit.

How often should kids have fluoride treatment?

Once your child has a tooth, your doctor may recommend that your child receive fluoride varnish treatments in the pediatrician's office to help prevent tooth decay. This can be done 2 to 4 times per year. The number of treatments depends on how likely it is that your child may get a cavity.

How long does it take for fluoride to work?

Some professional fluoride treatments require a waiting period of 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything. Fluoride varnishes adhere to the teeth for hours, and no waiting period is required. You may eat or drink immediately following its application.

Are fluoride treatments worth it?

Many adults wonder, “Are fluoride treatments beneficial for adults?” The answer is yes. All adults can benefit from a dental fluoride treatment, especially those at a higher risk for tooth decay. Insurance doesn't normally cover fluoride for adults, but the price is usually only around $20-40—well worth the extra cost.

What happens if you brush your teeth after fluoride?

Lindsey Koerich usually recommends brushing your teeth the next day after your treatment. However, you can brush your teeth after 6 or so hours after your treatment. After the 6 hours since your treatment, thoroughly brush your teeth. This will help get rid of any excess fluoride that your teeth have not absorbed.

Can I rinse my mouth after fluoride treatment?

When can you Eat and What after a Fluoride Treatment. You will be asked to do your best to not rinse, eat or drink anything for only 30 minutes. This is all the time the fluoride needs to absorb and repair. After that you might want to avoid hot or cold liquids or foods and then not to brush or floss for six hours.

Is fluoride varnish toxic?

The accepted toxic level is 5 mg/kg of weight for a person which can lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, hypotension, renal and respiratory complications, and coma in it's acute form 3. Lesser toxic levels can lead to more chronic side effects such as dental and skeletal fluorosis and gastric concerns 3.

Should kids get fluoride twice a year?

This treatment can help reduce cavities but up to 30 percent! Fluoride treatment is best if applied 2-4 times per year.

How much fluoride is too much?

Fluoride levels of 2.5 mg/L or higher may increase the risk of skeletal fluorosis (a condition that causes bones to break easily and causes calcium to build up in ligaments and tendons).

Are fluoride treatments safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for children. Fluoride overdose is rare as long as the mineral is used according to plan. However, it is important to take the necessary precaution to prevent fluorosis to occur.

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