Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent decay and strengthen teeth. It can be found in certain foods and over-the-counter products, but your dentist can also provide fluoride treatments. During your treatment at Bend Children's Dentistry, our dentist will apply a liquid or gel that contains fluoride to your children's teeth. After the application, your child can eat and drink as usual. You will need occasional follow-up appointments to ensure your teeth still receive the right amount of fluoride. Fluoride treatments benefit people of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. This is because everyone can benefit from extra protection against tooth decay.   

Who Needs Fluoride Treatment?   

Children and adults are both candidates for fluoride treatments. Even those without cavities can benefit from this dental treatment! It can help prevent tooth decay, strengthen the enamel of teeth that are already healthy, and make teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth.   

Most toothpaste and mouthwashes contain fluoride but in lower doses than what a patient would receive during treatment at the dentist’s office. Although implementing an at-home oral hygiene routine is essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums, a professional cleaning from a dental hygienist is also necessary to help prevent cavities. During a treatment session, the gums and teeth are carefully inspected for any problem areas that need to be addressed. Then, the patient will rinse their mouth to remove any buildup of tartar and food particles. Once relaxed in the chair, they may receive fluoride treatment. Fluoride is applied to the surface of the teeth directly in the form of a foam, gel, varnish, or liquid. This can take anywhere from a minute to an hour to take effect. Once the substance has set, it will be rinsed off with water. The length of this procedure depends on which type of fluoride is used and the situation of the patient’s oral health needs.   

Are Fluoride Treatments Safe for My Child?  

Fluoride treatments are safe for children and adults and do not have any known side effects. Children who already receive fluoride in daily drinking water can also benefit from additional treatments. The benefits of in-office fluoride treatments are that they can be concentrated to target the teeth at risk of developing decay and are applied directly to the teeth as a topical solution rather than taken internally like a supplement or vitamin. Over-the-counter fluoride supplements can be ineffective or can have negative side effects if too much is ingested at one time. Topical treatments are safe and effective for all age groups. They can be used in addition to professional cleanings and at-home oral hygiene routines to provide extra protection against cavities.   

Fluoride treatments are beneficial for both children and adults. Not only do they help prevent tooth decay, but they also help strengthen the tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities developing in the future. For the best dental care for your children, visit Bend Children's Dentistry at 2190 NE Professional Court, Suite 200, Bend, OR 97701, or call (541) 907-1611.