Strengthening Teeth and Preventing Cavities
In pediatric dentistry, our goal is to ensure your child’s teeth are healthy and strong for years to come. That’s why, at River Birch Dental, our pediatric dentist offers fluoride treatment to strengthen your child’s teeth and prevent cavities from forming. Read below to learn the importance of fluoride treatments for your child’s oral health, and call (715) 646-2161 to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Centuria, WI.
What Is Flouride Treatment?
Fluoride treatment is a common dental procedure to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been proven effective in preventing tooth decay. It’s commonly found in drinking water and many oral care products.
Benefits of Fluoride Treatment for Children
- Strengthens Tooth Enamel: Fluoride treatment helps to strengthen tooth enamel, which is the hard, protective outer layer of the teeth. This makes the teeth more resistant to decay and damage.
- Prevents Cavities: Fluoride treatment helps to prevent cavities by making it more difficult for bacteria to stick to the teeth and by reversing the early stages of decay.
- Safe and Effective: Fluoride treatment is safe when used in appropriate amounts and effective in preventing tooth decay in children.
- Easy and Painless: Fluoride treatment is a quick and easy procedure that’s painless for children. It can be administered in various forms, including varnish, gel, and mouth rinse.
- Saves Money: Fluoride treatment is a cost-effective way to prevent tooth decay in children. Preventing cavities can help save money on costly dental treatments down the line.
- Promotes Good Oral Health Habits: Fluoride treatment is often administered in a dental office, which can help promote good oral health habits in children from a young age. It also reinforces the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
- Improves Quality of Life: By preventing tooth decay and promoting good oral health, fluoride treatment can improve the quality of life for children. Healthy teeth and gums can help boost self-confidence, reduce pain and discomfort, and improve overall well-being.
Types of Fluoride Treatment
There are several types of fluoride treatment available for children, including:
Fluoride Varnish
Fluoride varnish is a sticky substance applied directly to the teeth with a brush. It contains a high concentration of fluoride, which is released slowly over time. This allows the fluoride to penetrate the tooth enamel and strengthen it. Fluoride varnish is a popular choice for young children, as it is easy to apply and dries quickly. It’s also safe for children who may swallow a small amount of the varnish.
Fluoride Gel
Fluoride gel is a thicker substance applied to the teeth with a tray. The gel is usually left on the teeth for several minutes before being rinsed. It contains a higher concentration of fluoride than toothpaste and is often used as a supplement to other fluoride treatments. Fluoride gel is typically recommended for children at a higher risk of developing cavities.
Fluoride Mouth Rinse
Fluoride mouth rinse is a liquid swished around the mouth and spit out. It’s often used as a supplement to other fluoride treatments. It can be especially beneficial for children who have difficulty using other fluoride treatments. Fluoride mouth rinse is available in several flavors, making it more appealing to children.
Safety Considerations
While fluoride is safe when used in appropriate amounts, it can be harmful in excess. Too much fluoride can cause fluorosis, which is characterized by white spots on the teeth. This is why it’s important to use fluoride treatments under the guidance of a dentist. Dentists can determine the appropriate amount of fluoride for each child based on age, diet, oral hygiene habits, and family history of dental problems.
When to Seek Fluoride Treatment
The need for fluoride treatment varies depending on each child’s circumstances. Factors that may influence the need for fluoride treatment include:
- Age
- Diet
- Oral hygiene habits
- Family history of dental problems
Dentists can help determine whether fluoride treatment is appropriate for a child and how often it should be administered.
Tips for Parents and Caregivers
Parents and caregivers can play an important role in ensuring that children get the most benefit from fluoride treatment. They can encourage regular dental checkups, model good oral hygiene habits, and make healthy dietary choices. Good oral hygiene habits include brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and limiting sugary snacks and drinks.