Fluoride is found in many community water supplies. It is also in most toothpaste and some mouthwashes. For low-risk patients, the fluoride gleaned from these sources should be sufficient to reap the benefits.

But if you are a moderate to high risk patient you may benefit from an in-house fluoride treatment. The fluoride used by the dentist has a higher concentration of fluoride than commercial preparations.

What Would Make Me a Moderate to High-Risk Patient?

Patients who have poor eating habits or poor oral hygiene could be considered for a fluoride treatment. Patients with dry mouth, sometimes attributed to illness or medication, would certainly benefit.

Saliva is what helps to clean the teeth in between brushings. If you can't produce saliva, the acid from food stays on your teeth and will accelerate the decaying process.

If you suffer from drug or alcohol abuse or you have active caries you should get a fluoride treatment. If you have a lot of fillings or tooth enamel defects you are also a good candidate.

How Does a Fluoride Treatment Work?

When you get an in-house fluoride treatment your dentist may use one of several substances; a gel, a solution, a varnish, or a foam. It is applied one of two ways, depending on the substance used.

It can be applied to the teeth with a cotton swab or a rush or it can be placed in a tray that you hold in your mouth for several minutes. Regardless of the treatment used, it takes a very short amount of time.

When the treatment is finished, you will be instructed not to rinse, eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes. This is done to allow the fluoride to be fully absorbed by the teeth.

Please contact our office if you have any questions about fluoride dental treatments.