Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are great for both children and adults because they offer protection for teeth while strengthening them all at once. Fluoride treatments are often administered at a patient’s 6-month appointment with the dentist. However, they can be administered at any point and take only a few minutes.

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Fluoride Treatments Fluoride Treatments Dr. Aaron Wildung DDS Family Dental Phoenix General, Cosmetic, Restorative, Preventative, Family Dentist in Phoenix, AZ 85021

WHAT IS FLUORIDE

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used for many decades as a treatment that strengthens and protects teeth. It can be found in mouthwash, toothpaste, and even city water systems. Fluoride can even be found in some foods.

What is Fluoride Good For?

On a daily basis, teeth lose and gain minerals from the enamel layer. The loss of these minerals is largely due to acidic properties in sugary foods and drinks. If the loss becomes greater than the minerals gained, decay and other issues can arise. Fluoride provides a protective layer on teeth that allows them to resist the harmful effects of acidic foods and drinks. Further, it also reverses some of the negative effects that have already occurred from these substances.

HOW FLUORIDE IS APPLIED

If a patient is looking to apply their own fluoride, it is available in mouthwashes and in toothpaste. However, in order to get a stronger treatment of fluoride, a dentist can administer the treatment in the form of a varnish, gel, or even foam. Sometimes, a dentist may give you the option of which form you prefer. Many times, the fluoride treatment will come in a tasty flavor to make it easier to administer to children. Some dentist offices may even have other forms of fluoride treatments; it will vary. These treatments are usually administered by putting the fluoride in a tooth-shaped tray that’s placed in the mouth like a retainer, or by swabbing, brushing, or rinsing.