You have probably seen a number of dental products that contain fluoride. Over-the-counter products such as toothpaste and mouthwash can contain fluoride. Additionally, if you have had a professional dental cleaning, you have likely had a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. It also supports your tooth’s enamel and fights harmful bacteria that attack your teeth and gums. But, how long does fluoride treatment last?
How Long Does Fluoride Treatment Last?
Below you will find information on how often you should have a fluoride treatment.
Frequency of Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is applied to your teeth in the form of a varnish, foam, or gel. The fluoride sticks to your teeth for a few hours absorbing the fluoride (even though the treatment itself takes just a few minutes). After you brush your teeth post-treatment the fluoride washes away. Depending on your unique dental health, the treatment usually lasts a few months. Talk with your dental provider at your six-month checkup to determine how often you should get a fluoride treatment.
Certain people may need to get it more often than others. If you have had an eating disorder, excessive drug or alcohol use, have poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, weak enamel, or have had a lack of professional dental care in your past, you may need fluoride treatment more often.
Benefits of Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride has a variety of benefits that can improve your oral health. It helps stop the growth of harmful bacteria in your mouth, which can help prevent tooth decay. It also penetrates into the deeper layers of your teeth, which can help create a strong surface. It is proactive as it helps restore the minerals on the enamel of your teeth.
Research has even shown that the earlier children are exposed to fluoride, the less likely they are to develop tooth decay in the form of cavities. This is highly beneficial as cavities are the top issue impacting children’s dental health. In addition to a regular fluoride treatment, you can also use toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride. They have been proven to not only in fight tooth decay, but in strengthen developing teeth.
Fluoride and Children
A complete fluoride treatment is necessary for children ages 6 to 16. However, the research indicates that children under 6 can benefit from fluoride as well. If your child is under 3 years old, assist them in brushing their teeth. You can use a thin layer of toothpaste with fluoride to brush their teeth. It’s important not to use too much as they shouldn’t ingest it. If your child is between 3 and 6 years old, continue to supervise your child when they brush their teeth. They should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with fluoride. Supervision is crucial when it comes to your children’s oral health. The earlier they begin healthy oral habits, the more likely they will face less dental issues during adulthood.
Get Treatment Today
Fluoride treatment in Chino Hills can help strengthen your teeth and proactively fight tooth decay. Your dental provider can administer fluoride treatment during your routine checkup. The treatment involves the application of a varnish, foam, or gel to your teeth. It is applied using a swab, brush, or tray during your appointment. The application takes just a few minutes, but you’ll need to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes afterward. This ensures that the fluoride absorbs into your teeth for optimal protection.
If you haven’t had a fluoride treatment recently, contact the team at Dental Care of Chino Hills. They offer a wide variety of preventative dentistry services, including fluoride treatment. Contact their office today for an appointment!