The Role of Fluoride Treatments During Dental Cleanings in Henderson, NV

What Are Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride treatments involve applying fluoride to your teeth to fortify the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, food, and soil, and it’s added to toothpaste, mouthwash, and drinking water to help prevent tooth decay.

At your routine dental cleaning appointment, our dentist will offer a professional fluoride treatment. The application takes just a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately afterward.

The Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments offer several advantages, including:

• Prevents Tooth Decay: By strengthening tooth enamel, fluoride makes it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth.
• Reduces Sensitivity: It can alleviate tooth sensitivity by reinforcing the enamel and blocking exposed dentin tubules.
• Helps Remineralize Teeth: Fluoride treatments can also help remineralize teeth damaged by acid attacks, potentially reversing early stages of tooth decay.

When Are Fluoride Treatments Necessary?

Dentists often recommend fluoride treatments for individuals at higher risk of developing tooth decay, such as:

• Children and teenagers: Their teeth are still developing and are less robust than adult teeth, making them more susceptible to decay.
• Individuals with dry mouth: A dry mouth can heighten the risk of tooth decay since saliva helps neutralize mouth acids.
• Individuals with a history of cavities: Those who have had cavities in the past are more likely to develop them again.
• Individuals with braces or other orthodontic appliances: These devices can complicate proper teeth cleaning, increasing the risk of tooth decay.

Types of Fluoride Treatment

• Topical fluoride: Applied directly to the teeth as a gel, foam, or varnish, often during routine cleanings or checkups at the dental office.
• Fluoride mouthwash: Used to rinse the mouth after brushing and flossing, available over the counter for home use.
• Prescription fluoride toothpaste: Contains a higher concentration of fluoride than regular toothpaste, available only by prescription, often for high-risk individuals.
• Fluoride supplements: Available in tablet or liquid form, these are taken orally and often recommended for children without access to fluoridated water.
• Fluoride varnish: A thick, sticky paste applied to the teeth, drying quickly and often used for children or those with sensitive teeth.

How the Fluoride Treatment Process Works

The fluoride treatment process is straightforward and painless. Prior to application, your dentist will conduct a dental cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar. Then, fluoride gel, foam, or varnish is applied to your teeth using a brush, swab, or tray.

Your dentist will advise keeping the fluoride on your teeth for a few minutes to allow absorption. Afterward, you can rinse your mouth to remove any excess fluoride.

Caring for Your Teeth After Fluoride Treatments

To ensure optimal results after your fluoride treatment, follow these guidelines:

• Refrain from eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes afterward.
• Avoid brushing your teeth or rinsing your mouth for at least four to six hours post-treatment.
• Steer clear of foods or drinks high in sugar or acid.
• Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove any food particles or plaque between your teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions