Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has existed for decades. This mineral is found in tap water and some of the foods we consume. Generally, fluoride can be found in 4 main sources. That is:
- Fluorinated tap water – Since the mid-1900s, most public water supplies in America have been fluoridated. According to the CDC, at least two-thirds of public tap water has enough fluoride to prevent dental decay.
- Fluoride toothpaste – Most mainstream toothpaste with the seal of approval from the American Dental Association contains safe amounts of fluoride.
- Fluoride supplements – Prescribed fluoride is usually recommended for young kids and may come in various forms: drops, lozenges, tablets, or high-fluoride mouthwash.
- Fluoride varnish – This is a gel-like substance with high fluoride levels that dentists apply to teeth following a dental cleaning procedure.
In dentistry, fluoride is known to help fight dental cavities by strengthening the enamel, which is the outer layer of protection found in each tooth. Also, the body needs some amounts of fluoride to ensure your teeth grow to be strong.
What Is Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride treatment is a procedure where a dental professional uses a tray or brush to topically apply fluoride to teeth after a professional dental cleaning. Most dentists would recommend in-office fluoride treatment compared to over-the-counter treatments because the fluoride amounts applied are within the right doses and concentration. Too much fluoride can cause fluorosis, so it’s always best to be sure that you get the treatment at a dental office for a satisfactory and safe outcome.Dentists offer two types of in-office fluoride treatment, that is:
- Foam or gel fluoride treatment
When dentists use fluoride foams and gels, some amounts are squirted inside a soft tray that you’ll be asked to bite down for around 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the fluoride type being used. A suction is placed in the mouth to ensure the patient doesn’t swallow anything.
Fluoride varnish was approved and released into the market a few years ago, but it is now the most preferred fluoride application method. The varnish used is sticky and thick so that it clings onto teeth for some time after the application. This process will involve a professional oral exam and dental cleaning before the fluoride varnish is topically applied to teeth.
Is It Worth It?
Fluoride treatment can be highly beneficial to anyone who is at risk of developing tooth decay or dental cavities. Tooth cavities usually occur mostly due to years of neglect in oral healthcare. Poor dental hygiene results in bacteria build-up on your gums and teeth to form sticky plaque. Dental plaque releases acids that erode the enamel and gum tissue. This will lead to the enamel developing a cavity which, if not treated, creates the possibility of bacteria infecting and harming nerve tissues at your tooth’s core or spreading to other body tissues.Fluoride treatment at our dentist in 60453 can help safeguard teeth from cavities and lower the chances of developing problems like tooth sensitivity and decay. When the treatment is used in appropriate amounts and as directed, it is safe for all age groups.
The Cons
When any mineral or vitamin in your body is in excessive amounts, it can lead to serious side effects. Some of these effects may be immediate, while others can be long-lasting. Typically, the side effects of fluoride are seen when one is exposed to extremely high fluoride doses through excess supplementation, natural means, or literally from swallowing toothpaste in large amounts for some reason. Below are possibilities of what may happen when you have an excess fluoride supply.
- Tooth discoloration – There are two types of stains or discoloration you can have on teeth from excess fluoride; extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are superficial stains that are possible to polish off teeth. Intrinsic stains occur internally and can cause pitted enamel and brown stains that don’t respond to whitening treatments.
- Allergic reaction – Allergic reactions triggered by fluoride are extremely rare but remain possible. Always communicate with your dentist about your medical and dental health history and any allergies you have.
Fluoride treatment is a hundred percent safe and is considered unsafe when availed in large amounts. You can get fluoride treatment near you at Family Dental Care – Oak Lawn or from a certified dentist near you.
FAQs
Yes. When used properly, fluoride is one of the best ways to strengthen your enamel and reduce your risk of cavities. Ask your dentist for product recommendations and how often you should get fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water and many foods.
Should you get fluoride on your teeth at the dentist? ›
Typically, professional fluoride treatments are done at your regular dental cleanings. However, the frequency of fluoride treatment depends on your individual needs and risk factors for tooth decay. Your dentist will recommend how often you should get fluoride treatment.
Should I say no to fluoride at the dentist? ›
Studies have suggested a potential correlation between high fluoride levels and health complications, such as dental fluorosis – a cosmetic condition resulting from excessive fluoride that leads to discoloration of the teeth.
Is fluoride treatment at the dentist better than home? ›
For those with a higher risk of cavities or those seeking a stronger treatment option, in-office fluoride treatments may be recommended to reach your desired effect. Home fluoride treatments, on the other hand, are an excellent option for maintaining consistent fluoride exposure between visits to your dentist.
Why don t dentists use fluoride anymore? ›
Over the years, there has been very little evidence supporting the use of fluoride. That means given the results of the research studies, there is currently not enough evidence to suggest using fluoride enhanced toothpastes and mouthwashes or undergoing fluoride treatment is beneficial.
Why do dentists push fluoride? ›
Plaque deposits on your tooth and erodes it, causing the development of cavities. However, during the early stages of cavities, fluoride reverses the cavities and hardens your tooth enamel. Fluoride is proven to protect your teeth from decay by rebuilding your eroded teeth surfaces through remineralization.
Why is fluoride not covered by insurance? ›
Many dental insurance plans do not cover in-office fluoride varnish treatments for adults. They have determined for some reason that fluoride varnish is important for kids to have, but when it comes to the over 18 crowd – not so important.
How long does fluoride treatment last? ›
Fluoride varnish keeps protecting teeth for several months. It works best if it is reapplied every three to six months.
Why do people avoid fluoride? ›
Risk of Dental Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride, especially during the early years of tooth development, can lead to dental fluorosis, characterized by changes in the appearance of tooth enamel. Potential Toxicity: In high doses, fluoride can be toxic, leading to serious health issues.
Do adults really need fluoride treatments? ›
Fluoride treatments are an important part of maintaining oral health for adults. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and reverses early signs of enamel damage, such as pitting and shallow caries.
From both a scientific and holistic perspective, it doesn't make sense to support the fluoridation of drinking water supplies, especially when we know that we don't even need fluoride to prevent cavities. Cavities are not caused by a deficiency of fluoride. Science teaches us that fluoride is a toxin — not a nutrient.
Are fluoride treatments worth the money? ›
Is It Worth It? Fluoride treatment can be highly beneficial to anyone who is at risk of developing tooth decay or dental cavities. Tooth cavities usually occur mostly due to years of neglect in oral healthcare. Poor dental hygiene results in bacteria build-up on your gums and teeth to form sticky plaque.
When do you stop getting fluoride at the dentist? ›
The treatment is most crucial when teeth are still developing, so you should at least wait for your kid to turn 16 before taking them off fluoride treatment. You can also continue with fluoride treatment in your adult years.
Can fluoride reverse cavities? ›
Fortunately, the beginning stages of a cavity can be reversed by taking steps toward good oral hygiene. During early demineralization, exposure to fluoride, daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleanings can all help prevent — or even reverse — tooth decay.
Do you really need fluoride treatment? ›
There are several reasons fluoride treatments could be beneficial to you as a grownup. If you have a high risk for cavities, topical fluoride applications can cut down on that risk. If you're experiencing gum recession that's softening your enamel, fluoride treatments can slow down that process.
What are the cons of fluoride treatment? ›
7 Side Effects of Consuming Fluoride You Should Know About
- Tooth Discoloration. Consumption of too much of fluoride leads to yellowed or browned teeth. ...
- Tooth Decay. High intake fluoridated water can lead to the weakening of enamel. ...
- Skeletal Weakness. ...
- Neurological Problems. ...
- High Blood Pressure. ...
- Acne. ...
- Seizures.
Fluoride Treatment Dentist Cost
Most dental insurance stop covering fluoride treatments after the age of 18. The average cost of fluoride treatment without insurance is $20-$50. Most treatments are part of routine exams and cleanings so you could be looking at $90-$120 for adults or $65-$100 for children.
