Fluoride treatments help prevent cavities and reduce sensitivity, especially on exposed root surfaces. The most common kind of fluoride applied at dental offices is called fluoride varnish and it is much more concentrated than what is in your toothpaste. Because it stays on your teeth for hours instead of minutes, it is absorbed into the teeth much better. Studies have shown that fluoride varnish reduces cavities by up to 43%.
Is fluoride toxic?
Not when used properly. Almost everything is toxic in large doses, including water and sunshine. It’s like taking over-the-counter headache medication. 1 or 2 ibuprofen will help reduce the pain, but if you take the whole bottle, that’s not going to go well. If you inadvertently swallow a small amount of fluoride, it might upset your stomach a little but is not harmful. If you consume an entire tube of toothpaste, it will cause acute toxicity.
Is fluoride natural?
Many people want to keep their teeth healthy with an all-natural approach. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element, just like calcium. It gets absorbed into the tooth and creates stronger enamel with a tighter crystalline structure that is more resistant to acids, and therefore less likely to get a cavity.
It is much more unnatural to get a cavity and then have to have anesthetic drugs injected into the tissue to numb the tooth, so a dentist can then use a drill to remove decay (which is a rotted tooth structure), and then place a plastic filling material that has to stay in the tooth. Keeping your own teeth healthy with the help of fluoride is a much better approach.
How much do fluoride treatments cost?
Professional fluoride treatments are typically $25-40.
Does my dental insurance cover fluoride treatments?
Maybe. Unfortunately, dental insurance does not always cover everything that patients need. Some dental plans cover fluoride treatments once or twice a year, and it is more common for insurance to cover fluoride treatments on children than adults, but people don’t magically stop getting cavities at age 14, 18, or 25 whenever insurance may stop paying for fluoride.
Paying a bit extra for preventative services like fluoride will probably save you money in the long run by helping to prevent problems. Fillings and crowns are expensive, and they don’t last forever, so those restorations will likely have to be replaced several times over the years.
Who should get fluoride treatments?
Fluoride can be applied as soon as a baby’s first tooth erupts, and can help throughout a person’s lifetime. Anyone at risk for cavities should get fluoride treatments at their dental office. Babies, children, and adults are at risk of cavities for different reasons. Kids and teenagers may not be as diligent about brushing and flossing.
Many people have diets that are high in sugar or consume acidic beverages that can damage teeth. If you have fillings and crowns already, fluoride can help prevent the margins of those restorations from breaking down prematurely. Older adults often have exposed root surfaces that are more prone to cavities because they are not protected by enamel. People with sensitive teeth will notice the effects of fluoride treatments right away.
Who shouldn’t get fluoride?
If you have tree-nut allergies, be sure to let your dentist know because some varnishes may contain rosin, which could lead to an allergic reaction in hypersensitive patients. Allergies to fluoride itself are extremely rare, but obviously, if you are allergic it should be avoided.
Do fluoride treatments hurt?
No. Some people might have a little sensitivity with having their teeth dried because the air feels cold, but if you have hypersensitivity to cold air or water, just let your dental provider know and gauze can be used to wipe the teeth instead.
Does it taste bad?
Fluoride varnishes generally have mild flavors that most people don’t mind.
How long do fluoride treatments take?
It only takes about a minute to apply. Your teeth will probably be dried a bit, and then the fluoride is painted on with a tiny brush. After it is applied you should leave it on for at least 4 hours to get the most benefit.
What do I do after a fluoride treatment?
Go about your day. Your teeth may feel a little filmy or fuzzy while the fluoride is on, but when you brush it off of your teeth they will feel normal again. The varnish is generally clear or white, so it should not be noticeable to other people.
You can eat and drink with fluoride on your teeth, but you’ll want to avoid things that will rub it off. Instructions may vary slightly with different brands of fluoride varnish, but generally, you should avoid anything that is excessively hot or sticky, especially for the first hour or so. Wait at least 4 hours before you brush it off, and spit it out.
Can I eat and drink after a fluoride treatment?
Generally yes, but it is better to wait 30 minutes or so for the fluoride to dry on your teeth, and then you’ll want to avoid hot beverages and sticky or chewy things like gum that can wear off the fluoride too soon.
How often should I get fluoride treatments?
The benefits of fluoride varnish generally last 3-4 months, and it can be applied up to 4 times per year. Have a discussion with your dentist or hygienist to determine what is appropriate for you.
