5 Facts a Pediatric Dentistry Office Can Tell You About Fluoride Treatment

A dentist might recommend fluoride treatment for a child for several reasons. The most common use of fluoride treatments in pediatric dentistry is to protect teeth against decay. A fluoride treatment is inexpensive and typically completed in minutes. Many dentists perform them routinely after cleaning treatments to keep their patients' teeth healthy.

Interesting facts about fluoride treatment

Let us take a look at some interesting facts about fluoride treatment you might not be aware of:

1. Fluoride can reverse tooth decay

You may be surprised to discover tooth decay is reversible, but fluoride treatments are that powerful. Tooth decay results from oral bacteria making acids that destroy teeth. Decay takes place in different stages, and the first stage, known as the demineralization stage, can be reversed with fluoride treatment.

Unfortunately, tooth decay is challenging to detect on your own during this stage, which is why regular dental checkups are essential. A dentist is more likely to catch the decay during their examinations so it can be reversed before permanent damage sets in.

2. Fluoride treatments can help kids who grind their teeth

If your child grinds their teeth, they risk developing enamel damage and gum disease. Fluoride treatment can help to protect their teeth against this type of damage.

3. Fluoride treatments make teeth more resistant to staining

If you are concerned about your child's teeth becoming stained, a fluoride treatment can help. Fluoride makes the tooth enamel more resistant to staining from foods and drinks. It also helps restore teeth's structural integrity after teeth whitening treatments. Whitening teeth involves using chemicals like hydrogen peroxide that weaken enamel.

4. Fluoride treatments can reduce the risk of cavities

Fluoride effectively reduces the risk of cavities because it helps remineralize the tooth enamel. It helps replenish the minerals lost when teeth are exposed to acidic foods and drinks. Fluoride also helps to reduce oral bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to cavities.

5. Fluoride treatments are safe

Fluoride treatments are safe for both children and adults. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends fluoride treatments for children at a high risk of developing cavities. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element found in water, food, and soil.

While too much fluoride can be harmful, the ADA says it is very difficult to overdose on fluoride because it is not absorbed well by the body. Fluoride toxicity only occurs when someone swallows large amounts of fluoride, which is rare.

The process of getting a fluoride treatment

Fluoride treatments are quick and easy and can be performed at the dentist's office or home. The dentist will use a small brush to apply a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish to the teeth. The gel or foam is usually left on the teeth for one to four minutes before being rinsed off.

The varnish is left on the teeth for longer, typically taking about 30 minutes to harden. Once it hardens, you can eat and drink as usual. Fluoride treatments are typically performed every three to six months.