Overview
Fluoride has been proven by the American Dental Association (ADA), the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Medical Association (AMA), and other professional organizations to have positive effects on dental enamel. Communities that add fluoride to their water supply have fewer problems with tooth decay and see a reduced incidence in the overall development of dental cavities. A natural mineral found in soil and in some foods, fluoride builds up teeth and bones to help strengthen these structures and minimize the risk of cavities and damage. Professional fluoride treatments at Orlando Advanced Dentists in Orlando, FL can help children with developing teeth and adults at risk for tooth decay protect their oral health against cavity formation. Professional fluoride treatments are provided during preventive care dental visits with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Patricia Roach. Learn more about the benefits of fluoride by scheduling your visit with our caring team today.
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Best Candidates
Fluoride treatments can be given to patients of all ages, though they are usually provided for younger patients whose teeth are still in the developmental stages or those who are not maintaining a proper oral care routine at home. Dr. Roach also recommends fluoride treatments for adult patients who do not have fluoride in their drinking water, who are prone to cavities, and who have exposed root surfaces due to gum recession. Orlando Advanced Dentists may use different fluoride formulas to address specific needs, such as neutral sodium fluoride for dry mouth or acidulated phosphate fluoride when dental restorations (bridges and crowns) are present. We also offer different flavors to make receiving fluoride treatments easier and more enjoyable for all patients.
What to Expect
Fluoride treatments are usually performed every six months at the end of a dental cleaning visit. As soon as you select your flavor, our dental hygienist will prepare the treatment as either a varnish. Gel and foam fluoride applications will be left on the teeth for up to five minutes to allow the fluoride time to penetrate the enamel. Fluoride varnish is painted onto tooth enamel and carried into the grooves, pits, and fissures of the teeth through the saliva. Our hygienist will use suction to help clear your mouth after the fluoride treatment, but you will need to avoid rinsing your mouth, eating, or drinking for at least 30 minutes after. Additional instructions for fluoride varnish will also be reviewed if this method of application is used during your treatment.
Follow-Up
Nausea and vomiting can occur if you consume any fluoride, but this should diminish about a day following treatment. In some cases, Dr. Roach may prescribe fluoride supplements for you or your child to use at home, if additional protection is needed. Since fluoride can be toxic in high amounts, adults should be careful and make sure to keep supplements out of reach of children. While these treatments help to strengthen the enamel, you should continue or establish a good home oral care routine, including brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing at least twice each day. You should also attend your scheduled exams and cleanings at Orlando Advanced Dentists so that Dr. Roach can reassess your need for fluoride treatments.
Fluoride Treatments
Help make sure you and your family have strong, healthy teeth with professional fluoride treatments from Orlando Advanced Dentists. Dr. Roach offers fluoride treatments for younger patients with developing teeth and adults who are looking to minimize future dental concerns. Contact our office in Orlando, FL today to schedule an appointment for a dental cleaning, an exam, and a professional fluoride treatment.