Fluoride Treatment FAQs

Although we take care of our teeth through brushing and professional cleaning, decay can still occur. That is why we recommend other dental practices to help strengthen teeth, such as fluoride treatments.

A lot of misinformation is available on the internet. In this post, we offer fact-based information on fluoride and its benefits.

What is Fluoride and It’s Benefits to the Teeth?

Fluoride is found in the earth’s surface, food, toothpaste, water, and mouth rinses. It is nature’s cavity fighter because it helps to protect the teeth from decay. Here is how:

The enamel consists of vital minerals–calcium and phosphate. These minerals strengthen the enamel and make it easy for it to withstand decay.

However, because of the foods we eat and our brushing techniques, these minerals are stripped off, leaving the enamel a little bit weak.

But, when we use fluoride toothpaste or drink fluoridated water, the enamel is able to reverse the process and reabsorb the minerals. Fluoride, therefore, is crucial to maintaining the strength of the enamel and preventing cavities.

Why is Fluoride Treatments Needed?

People who have healthy teeth and not at risk of developing cavities can use fluoride toothpaste and rinses. However, if you are predisposed to dental cavities, the dentist may recommend professional fluoride treatments every 3, 6, or 12 months.

Several conditions can increase your risks of dental decay, such as:

• Dry mouth. Saliva production is important to your dental health. Not only does it wash away the food particles, but it also reduces the acid attack on the enamel. (When we eat a high-carb diet, the bacteria in the mouth breaks down the food, producing an acid solution). When you have a dry mouth due to certain medication or diseases, the food particles are not washed out or the acids neutralized, leaving you at risk.
• History of dental cavities
• Presence of gum disease. Advanced periodontal disease will cause the gums to recede, exposing the root and increasing the risk of decay.
• Dental crowns and bridges. These restoration increase risk of decay at the point where the crown and the teeth meet.

It is crucial to your dentist to assess your risk factor before getting fluoride treatment in Astoria, NY.

What Are The Forms of Fluoride Treatments Available?

Two options are available—systemic and topical. The systemic fluoride treatments involve the products that can be swallowed, such as supplements, food products, and water.

On the other hand, topical treatments involve those products that can be applied to the enamel, such as toothpaste, varnish, mouth rinses, etc. Our dentist in Astoria, NY, can use both topic and systemic depending on your dental needs.

What Happens During a Fluoride Treatment Session?

The dentist will first clean your teeth of any plaque buildup. Next, he will apply a foam, varnish, or gel on the teeth using a tray, brush, or swab.

It takes a few minutes for the fluoride solution to be applied to the teeth. You are to stay for 30 minutes before eating or drinking to allow the enamel to absorb the fluoride.

We perform the fluoride treatment as part of your routine dental checkup and cleaning.

How Much Does the Fluoride Treatment Cost?

Most insurance plans cover the fluoride treatments but only for children. The cost per tooth ranges from $10 to $30 but first, consult our dentist in 11102 for the accurate price.

Are Risks of Using Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride is safe and rarely causes any problems. However, when used in excess, it can lead to fluorosis. This causes teeth discoloration and the formation of white specks. There also may be problems with bone homeostasis and dense, but weak bones.

An overdose of the fluoride supplements can lead to acute toxicity, which causes nausea, excessive sweating, tiredness, and diarrhea. Children are more at risk of overdose, so monitor them when they are brushing and do not give the supplements unless advised by the dentist.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Dimaggio Dental for more information on fluoride treatments and our other general dentistry services in Astoria, NY.