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.
Why should I get a fluoride treatment at the dentist?
The Mayo Clinic states the following recommended daily amounts of fluoride:
- Birth to 3 years of age: 0.1 to 1.5 milligrams (mg)
- 4 to 6 years of age: 1 to 2.5 mg
- 7 to 10 years of age: 1.5 to 2.5 mg
- Adolescents and adults: 1.5 to 4 mg
Should I get a fluoride treatment at the dentist?
Yes, fluoride treatments at the dentist are effective because fluoride is applied directly to teeth, usually as a gel, foam, or varnish. Direct application allows tooth enamel to quickly absorb the fluoride. Fluoride varnish is “painted” onto teeth while fluoride foam is placed into a mouthguard-like tray and set in the mouth for 3-5 minutes.
Why is a fluoride treatment at my dentist important?
Fluoride is a significant element used to defend the teeth from bacteria and plaque buildup. It will help strengthen the dental enamel and reverse the process of tooth decay. The process of applying fluoride to teeth is known as ‘Mineralization’. On the other hand, ‘Demineralization’ is the process of tooth decay from acid, bacteria ...
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Is fluoride treatment at 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.
How long does a fluoride treatment from the dentist last?
The fluoride varnish sticks to the teeth until brushed away the next day, however, the benefits of the fluoride will last for several months. Fluoride varnish needs to be reapplied every 3 to 4 months for best results.
Why does the dentist put fluoride on your teeth?
Fluoride varnish is a dental treatment that can help prevent tooth decay, slow it down, or stop it from getting worse. Fluoride varnish is made with fluoride, a mineral that can strengthen tooth enamel (outer coating on teeth). Keep in mind that fluoride varnish treatments cannot completely prevent cavities.
What is fluoride gel used for?
This medication is applied to teeth to prevent cavities. Fluoride is a mineral that works by making the teeth stronger and more resistant to decay caused by acid and bacteria.Do not use this medication in children younger than 12 years unless directed to do so by your dentist/doctor.
Does fluoride strengthen teeth?
Fluoride is a natural element that strengthens teeth and prevents their deterioration. Experts believe that the best way to prevent cavities is use of fluoride from multiple sources. Fluoride in small amounts naturally occurring water sources and it can be found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs and tea (1).
Do you brush your teeth after fluoride treatment?
When can I brush my teeth after fluoride treatment? Wait between 4 – 6 hours before resuming your routine oral care. To stay on the side of caution, you should wait for 6 hours before brushing or flossing your teeth. When you wait for 6 hours or longer, the fluoride will cover and protect your teeth better.
How soon after fluoride treatment can I eat?
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.
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 often should you do 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.
What are the side effects of fluoride treatment?
7 fluoride side effects that should be monitored to achieve desired results-Tooth Discoloration. Consumption of too much of fluoride leads to yellowed or browned teeth. ... Tooth Decay. High intake fluoridated water can lead to the weakening of enamel. ... Skeletal Weakness. ... Neurological Problems. ... High Blood Pressure. ... Acne. ... Seizures.
Why do you need fluoride?
What Does Fluoride Do and How Does It Work? Fluoride not only protects your teeth from decay, but it also helps to reduce acid-related enamel wear. Certain acidic foods, such as salad dressings, fruit juices and tomatoes, can dissolve the enamel of your teeth daily.
How does fluoride work?
When your saliva has fluoride in it from sources like toothpaste or water, your teeth are able to take it in. Once in your enamel, fluoride teams up with calcium and phosphate there to create the most powerful defense system your teeth can have to prevent cavities from forming: fluoroapatite.
How long does it take for teeth to absorb fluoride?
Receiving a fluoride treatment from your dentist A fluoride treatment in your dentist's office takes just a few minutes. After the treatment, patients may be asked not to rinse, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride.
How often should you get a fluoride treatment?
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 do you get rid of the fluoride taste after dentist?
Most of the time, it is a simple fluoride rinse that your hygienist will have you swish in your mouth. Some patients may receive a fluoride varnish which is a topical paste applied directly to the teeth....Office Hours.Monday:7:30am - 5:00pmSunday:Closed5 more rows
How long should fluoride toothpaste stay on teeth?
Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for about 2 minutes to help keep your teeth and mouth healthy. Plaque is a film of bacteria that coats your teeth if you don't brush them properly. It contributes to gum disease and tooth decay. Tooth brushing stops plaque building up.
Why do dentists use fluoride?
Ask your dentist for a fluoride treatment for your teeth to help protect and remineralize enamel, helping reduce the likelihood of a cavity. Now that's something to smile about! Learn more about fluoride and how these treatments can benefit you.
How long does it take to get fluoride out of your mouth?
Professional fluoride treatments usually only take a few minutes. The fluoride might come in the form of a gel, foam or varnish. It can be applied with a swab or brush or placed in a tray held in the mouth for a few minutes. After the treatment is applied, don't eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow your teeth to absorb ...
How long should you wait to eat after fluoride treatment?
After the treatment is applied, don't eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow your teeth to absorb the fluoride and help repair microscopic areas of decay. Depending on your oral health, your dentist might recommend fluoride treatments every 6–12 months.
What is the best treatment for tooth decay?
If you're at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, your dentist might also recommend other preventive measures, such as over-the-counter or prescription fluoride mouth rinses or gels, or an antibacterial mouth rinse. Ask your dentist about the benefits of fluoride treatments, and keep up your daily dental hygiene regimen.
What is fluoride in water?
What is fluoride? Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps rebuild tooth enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. Your body takes in fluoride in two ways: systemically and topically. Systemic fluorides are swallowed, including fluoridated water (most tap water) and dietary fluoride supplements.
Can kids get fluoride?
Fluoride treatments for kids. According to Stanford Children's Health, children can begin getting fluoride treatments at the dentist once their first tooth appears. However, be aware that children under two years old should still use a fluoride-free toothpaste.
Is fluoride good for teeth?
Fluoride treatments applied by a dentist are especially good for people with a higher risk for tooth decay or erosion. If you have dry mouth, weak enamel, poor oral health or if you have crowns, ask your dentist if applying a fluoride varnish would help protect your teeth.
What are the benefits of fluoride treatment?
In addition, people with certain conditions may be at increased risk of tooth decay and would therefore benefit from additional fluoride treatment. They include people with: 1 Dry mouth conditions: Also called xerostomia, dry mouth caused by diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome, certain medications (such as allergy medications, antihistamines, anti anxiety drugs, and high blood pressure drugs ), and head and neck radiation treatment makes someone more prone to tooth decay. The lack of saliva makes it harder for food particles to be washed away and acids to be neutralized. 2 Gum disease: Gum disease, also called periodontitis, can expose more of your tooth and tooth roots to bacteria increasing the chance of tooth decay. Gingivitis is an early stage of periodontitis. 3 History of frequent cavities: If you have one cavity every year or every other year, you might benefit from additional fluoride. 4 Presence of crowns and/or bridges or braces: These treatments can put teeth at risk for decay at the point where the crown meets the underlying tooth structure or around the brackets of orthodontic appliances.
How does fluoride affect teeth?
In children under 6 years of age, fluoride becomes incorporated into the development of permanent teeth, making it difficult for acids to demineralize the teeth. Fluoride also helps speed remineralization as well as disrupts acid production in already erupted teeth of both children and adults.
How much fluoride is removed from water?
Reverse osmosis systems remove between 65% and 95% of the fluoride. On the other hand, water softeners and charcoal/carbon filters generally do not remove fluoride. One exception: some activated carbon filters contain activated alumina that may remove over 80% of the fluoride.
What to do if you have concerns about fluoride?
Nonetheless, if you do have concerns or questions about the amount of fluoride you or your child may be receiving, talk to your child's dentist, pediatrician, or family doctor. A few useful reminders about fluoride include: Store fluoride supplements away from young children.
What is the cause of tooth decay?
The lack of saliva makes it harder for food particles to be washed away and acids to be neutralized. Gum disease: Gum disease, also called periodontitis, can expose more of your tooth and tooth roots to bacteria increasing the chance of tooth decay. Gingivitis is an early stage of periodontitis.
How is fluoride lost?
Every day, minerals are added to and lost from a tooth 's enamel layer through two processes, demineralization and remineralization. Minerals are lost (demineralization) from a tooth 's enamel layer when acids -- formed from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth -- attack ...
What is the term for minerals that are lost from the enamel of teeth?
Minerals are lost (demineralization) from a tooth 's enamel layer when acids -- formed from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth -- attack the enamel. Minerals such as fluoride, calcium, and phosphate are redeposited (remineralization) to the enamel layer from the foods and waters consumed. Too much demineralization without enough ...
Why do dentists use fluoride?
Another reason your dentist will likely include a fluoride treatment during your next visit is that when fluoride combines with the saliva in our mouths, it makes it easier for our bodies to keep our teeth healthy and fight bacteria-causing cavities that may form.
What is the treatment for fluoride?
Fluoride treatments come in many forms, including as a gel, a rinsing solution, a foam, or a varnish.
What is the best treatment for gum recession?
High fluoride toothpastes and fluoride varnishes are also excellent treatments for exposed root surfaces in areas of gum recession.
What is the recommended level of fluoride in water?
This process involves adding fluoride to the water supply to help prevent tooth decay and improve oral health. Health Canada recommends an optimal level of 0.7mg/L and a maximum acceptable concentration of 1.5mg/L and fluoride in drinking water.
How does dental health affect your life?
Poor dental health can have an impact on your overall health and quality of life. If you have sore and painful gums, tooth decay, or missing teeth, it can affect the way you chew and which foods you can comfortably eat. Bad breath, tooth decay, and plaque buildup can also lead to feelings of self-consciousness.
How long after fluoride varnish can you eat?
To help ensure you gain the maximum benefit from the fluoride, you will likely be asked not to eat or rinse your mouth for at least 30 minutes after gels and rinses. This gives your tooth enamel a chance to fully absorb all of the fluoride. Patients can eat and drink foods after fluoride varnish as long as they are not too hot or crunchy.
How to prevent fluorosis in children?
To prevent dental fluorosis, parents should supervise their children carefully while they are brushing their teeth .
How to get fluoride?
You can get fluoride by drinking tap water in communities where the public water system adds fluoride and by using fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse, as well as from certain foods and beverages. In the dental office, a dentist can apply fluoride varnish or gel, and in some public health programs, children can have fluoride varnish applied ...
What is the mineral that prevents tooth decay?
The story of how dental science discovered, and ultimately proved to the world, that fluoride, a mineral found in rocks and soil, prevents tooth decay.
What is the greatest public health achievement of the 20th century?
It has been identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century. When delivered through the water supply to children during the tooth forming years. Through direct contact with teeth throughout life.
Is fluoride good for dental health?
Fluoride & Dental Health. Versión en español. Fluoride (said like floor-eyed) is a mineral that occurs naturally in soil, water, and air that has been shown to prevent cavities, or tooth decay. For the past several decades, fluoride has been added to community water supplies and oral care products such as toothpaste and mouth rinse.
Why is fluoride used for teeth?
This medication is applied to teeth to prevent cavities. Fluoride is a mineral that works by making the teeth stronger and more resistant to decay caused by acid and bacteria.Do not use this medication in children younger than 12 years unless directed to do so by your dentist /doctor.
What to do before using stannous fluoride?
Precautions. Before using stannous fluoride, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
How long does it take for a gel to stay on your teeth?
After brushing with toothpaste, apply this medication to your teeth and brush thoroughly. Allow the gel to remain on your teeth for 1 minute, then spit out. Try not to swallow the medication. Carefully watch children during use to prevent repeated swallowing of the gel.
How long after taking fluoride can you eat?
To get the most benefit, you should not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for at least 30 minutes after using the gel. Dosage is based on age and the amount of fluoride in your drinking water.
What to tell your doctor before taking a sulfate med?
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: mouth problems (such as sores, mucositis).
Can you flush expired medication down the toilet?
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Can you use a saline toothpaste more than once a day?
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Do not treat this medication like a normal toothpaste: do not use it more often than prescribed, or just to brush your teeth. Side Effects. Temporary staining of the teeth may occur.
When to use fluoride after cleaning teeth?
The best time it can be used is right after the cleaning which allows better application and absorption by your teeth.
Why is fluoride used in mouthwash?
Fluoride helps the enamel become stronger due to its regenerating ingredients. I would let your dentist know you do already use ACT mouthwash and maybe the fluoride treatment can be minimized to every other professional cleaning you have done.
How often should I use fluoride?
Fluoride is very useful and if you have it every 6 months to a year, that's good. You should also practise good oral hygiene. Sophia Bednarski Dentist St. Louis, Missouri. If you have many restorations in your mouth or any decalcified enamel in your teeth or dry mouth syndrome, the fluoride treatment is all worth it.
What is the best fluoride treatment?
The fluoride treatment following the cleaning is the most effective topical fluoride treatment you can get because the root and crown surface are clean and there is not a plaque barrier to inhibit the fluoride from reacting to the tooth.
Should I get fluoride after a dental cleaning?
I would recommend getting a fluoride treatment after your cleaning. When you get your teeth scaled at a cleaning appointment, the protective enamel layer on the root surface sometimes gets disturbed. Applying fluoride right after the cleaning helps to re-harden this layer. The concentration you would get at the dental office would probably be a lot more than what you would get over the counter. I am not sure what ACT has.
Can you use fluoride varnish in office?
Yes, you should take advantage of the in office professional fluoride treatment . Most dentists are now using the varnish just like for children which incorporates over 6 hours you can eat and drink. It comes off when you brush before bed. It provides an extra benefit of fluoride over about a 3 month period preventing decay. The professional rinse is more effective than the home rinse as well and is worth the investment. It is not the same as the home rinse. The home rinse can act as an added replenisher that is beneficial as well if you chose to use it in addition. Dr. Grimm
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Dental Health with Fluoride
Procedure
Cost
- The cost for a dental fluoride treatment varies based on the type, but they typically start at around $25.4If you have dental insurance, your policy may cover certain dental fluoride treatments. It’s important to discuss these treatments with your insurance provider before you get one at the dentist's office.
How Much Fluoride Is needed?
- For healthy teeth, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Most toothpaste has a range of 1,000–1,500 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride.5 Parents with children younger than 2 should consult with their healthcare provider, pediatrician, or dentist before starting a fluoride toothpaste. However, when your child cuts their first tooth, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests us…
Benefits
- Fluoride is essential for a healthy mouth and teeth. The benefits of fluoride include building strong teeth, protecting tooth enamel, and fighting tooth decay. Fluoride also reduces the amount of acid on your teeth caused by bacteria.7
Side Effects
- Like many other minerals, fluoride can be toxic if you consume it in high doses. However, if you brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, the amount of it is too small to present a risk. If your dentist prescribes additional fluoride treatments, it’s important to use them as directed. Children ages 8 and younger are at risk for developing dental fluorosis, or discoloratio…
Summary
- Good dental hygiene includes fluoride in your toothpaste and/or drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. If necessary, your dentist may recommend additional dental fluoride treatments. These treatments are a quick and easy way to help ward off tooth decay and gum disease. To keep your teeth healthy, it's important to brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
A Word from Verywell
- Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day goes a long way in keeping your teeth healthy and strong. Be sure to get a dental cleaning and checkup at least once a year, and speak with the dentist about fluoride treatments.