Treatment FAQ

how often do i need fluoride treatment

by Javon Okuneva Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
image

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a professional fluoride treatment at your dentist's office every 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on your oral health. If you're at high risk for cavities, your dentist may also prescribe a special fluoride rinse or gel to use regularly at home.

How long does fluoride need to stay on your teeth?

Traditional foam fluoride had to stay in contact with the teeth for 4 minutes in order to be effective. If not you can eat as soon as you need to after the cleaning is done. Research shows that placing Fluoride varnish on your teeth every 6 months is effective in reducing decay especially on smooth tooth surfaces.

Can you drink soda after a fluoride treatment?

The professional treatments from dentists have more fluoride than what is available in toothpaste or tap water, and the application only requires a few minutes. You will be requested to avoid eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes after the treatment to ensure your teeth entirely absorb the fluoride.

How long after Flouride treatment can you eat?

It is always important to follow any instructions your dentist provides after any procedure, of course, including any suggestions after a fluoride treatment. Fortunately, the instructions are usually simple – avoid having anything to eat or drink for at least 30 minutes after your fluoride treatment.

Is the fluoride treatment at the dentist really worth it?

New research indicates that topical fluoride -- from toothpastes, mouth rinses, and fluoride treatments -- are as important in fighting tooth decay as in strengthening developing teeth.

image

How long do fluoride treatments last?

When you come for a fluoride treatment in Houston, we follow the recommendation of the American Dental Association that stated that fluoride treatment should be done every 3, 6 or 12 months to ensure the fluoride film is strong and effective.

How often should an adult get fluoride treatment?

Fluoride treatments are important for adults as well. They are an effective way to prevent cavities and other oral health issues, especially as teeth naturally weaken over time. Adults should receive 2–4 fluoride treatments per year, depending on their overall oral health.

How often should fluoride varnish be applied?

Answer: Fluoride varnish can be applied 4 times a year or every 3 months. Studies show that children who get fluoride varnish every 3 months have fewer cavities than those who get it less often or not at all.

Are fluoride treatments necessary?

Everyone needs fluoride in their diet to help keep tooth enamel strong and healthy. Eating healthy, drinking water that contains fluoride, and using fluoride toothpaste is an excellent way to keep up with fluoride intake. But most people can still benefit from a regular fluoride treatment.

Is fluoride treatment worth it for adults?

However, adults benefit from fluoride, too. New research indicates that topical fluoride -- from toothpastes, mouth rinses, and fluoride treatments -- are as important in fighting tooth decay as in strengthening developing teeth.

Is fluoride varnish worth it for adults?

Fluoride varnish, such as Colgate® PreviDent® Varnish, is effective for caries prevention in all age groups. For those at moderate risk of developing caries, the ICDAS Foundation recommends professional application of fluoride varnish twice a year.

Can I use fluoride varnish everyday?

As you may know fluoride varnish has FDA approval as a desensitizing agent and shows great caries preventive benefits. According to the most recent ADA report on topical fluorides, 5% NaF varnish should be applied every 3-6 months for patients at an elevated risk of dental caries.

Is getting fluoride at the dentist worth it?

What you need to know as a dental consumer is that studies have shown topical fluoride applications performed by a dental professional create a significant benefit for adults who have moderate to high risk for cavities. There are several circumstances that warrant extra fluoride protection among adults.

Does fluoride varnish actually work?

Despite a high level of heterogeneity identified in the meta-analysis, the authors concluded that fluoride varnish was an effective product to stop the progression of enamel carious lesions in both primary and permanent teeth.

What are the cons of fluoride?

The cons of fluoride Certain studies have shown that fluoride may contribute to weakening the bones and maybe even the joint's connective tissues. Fluoride also causes a condition known as fluorosis, which causes tooth discoloration.

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).

Does fluoride whiten teeth?

Does Fluoride whiten teeth? No, it doesn't whiten teeth, but it does help to protect and strengthen them.

How much does insurance cover for fluoride?

Insurance usually covers fluoride treatments at the dentist for children. Adults, however, may pay $10 to $30 out of pocket, or more. Always ask your dentist about costs before treatment.

How to get fluoride?

You can get fluoride two ways: topically from toothpaste and treatments at the dentist. systemically in water and dietary supplements. According to the ADA, it’s best to get fluoride both topically and systemically. So, you still need to use fluoride toothpaste, even if your local water is boosted by added fluoride.

What is the purpose of fluoride?

Fluoride is a natural mineral that prevents cavities. It restores minerals to tooth enamel and prevents harmful bacteria from building up in the mouth. Overdosing on fluoride can cause negative complications.

Why is fluoride important for teeth?

Tooth enamel is the outer protective layer of each tooth. Fluoride is especially helpful if you’re at high risk of developing dental caries, or cavities.

How old should a child be to brush their teeth?

If your child is under 3 years old, they should only brush their teeth with close supervision. Apply only a thin layer of fluoride toothpaste to their toothbrush. The toothpaste should cover less than half of the bristles or be no bigger than a grain of rice.

What is the best source of fluoride?

dry mouth, or decreased saliva. weak enamel. Common sources of dietary fluoride include: tea. water. food cooked in water. fish eaten with their bones. infant formula. Optimal fluoride intake comes from food, water, and supplements.

Is fluoride good for children?

Fluoride benefits both children and adults. The earlier children are exposed to fluoride, the less likely they are to develop cavities. A large study found that children and adolescents who received fluoride treatments for one year were 43 percent. less likely to have tooth decay and cavities.

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. Decay is caused by disease-carrying bacteria that sticks to your teeth and gums. Fluoride fights that bacteria and even can help repair teeth in the early stages of decay. Fluoride comes in two forms: topical and systemic. Systemic fluoride is swallowed and usually comes from fluoridated water.

Who Should Receive Fluoride Treatments?

Specific individuals are at greater risk of fluoride deficiencies. Some of the most common factors that contribute to high tooth decay are:

How Often Should I Get a Fluoride Treatment?

Professional fluoride treatments don’t take long at all, and your dentist will typically provide them alongside your routine check-up. Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist about receiving a fluoride treatment. It’s easy, painless, and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.

Contact Lovett Dental Webster Today

Scheduling an appointment at Lovett Dental Webster can help you reach your oral health goals. If you have questions about fluoride, tooth decay, or gum sensitivity, our specialists would be delighted to take your call. Feel confident in your smile. We provide a range of services, including:

image
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9