How Can Fluoride Treatments Protect My Smile?

How Does Fluoride Protect Teeth?

Fluoride hardens the surface of teeth, which makes it a valuable treatment in the fight against tooth decay. Cavities form as the result of the interaction of bacteria and plaque. As the microbes release acid, the surface of teeth becomes demineralized and eventually leads to the formation of small holes in the enamel. Fluoride prevents this kind of damage from bacteria by strengthening the surface of teeth.

Many adults benefit from fluoride without even knowing it. A majority of municipalities across the United States add fluoride to water through a process called fluoridation. It is also commonly found in toothpaste and oral hygiene products. However, many of our Peabody patients can benefit from the topical application of the cavity-fighting mineral. When applied in concentrated levels by a dental professional, fluoride can even rebuild weakened tooth enamel.

Children and teenagers are statistically at greater risk for developing tooth decay. If you are the parent of a child who is 18 or younger, a member of our dental team can walk you through the benefits of fluoride treatment. While any adult can benefit from this preventative treatment, individuals who have a history of cavities may benefit the most from fluoride.

Many forms of dental insurance cover most or all of the costs associated with fluoride treatment. 

Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

Any of our patients can benefit from the application of fluoride at our Peabody dental practice, including: 

• Long-term cavity prevention
• Safe treatment that has a minimal risk for side effects
• Better cavity prevention that over-the-counter oral hygiene products offer
• Effective treatment for patients of any age

Fluoride is provided as a long-term investment in your oral health. Consequently, it can also save patients both pain and expense by preventing the condition and allowing you to avoid costly treatments such as root canal therapy or dental crowns.

What to Expect during the Appointment

Fluoride treatments can be scheduled during your regular visit to our Peabody dental practice. It can be applied through a number of means. Typically, a member of our dental team will paint the fluoride onto the surface of your teeth using a swab or brush. The application takes a few minutes at most.

Following the preventative treatment, patients should avoid eating or drinking for half an hour to allow the fluoride to be absorbed into your enamel. No special care is required: after the fluoride has fully dried, you simply need to continue brushing your teeth twice a day. 

Schedule Your Fluoride Treatment Today

Fluoride is a widely used and medically sound treatment for preventing tooth decay. Many forms of dental insurance cover most or all of the costs associated with fluoride treatment. Our office also accepts LendingClub® financing and offers affordable in-house financing plans to help patients. To schedule your next visit to Navid Family Dental Associates, please contact our office online or call us at (978) 532-5550.