Children's Dentistry
Fluoride Treatments
Procedure Description
Topical fluoride is the most effective method for preventing and controlling tooth decay. Our professional fluoride treatment is a quick, comfortable procedure that strengthens your tooth enamel and provides lasting protection against cavities.
Tray Selection
The application of fluoride begins with selecting the proper size tray to ensure complete coverage of all teeth.
Fluoride Preparation
After the tray is filled with fluoride foam or gel, the teeth are dried to maximize fluoride absorption.
Tray Insertion
The trays are then inserted into the mouth on both the upper and lower teeth simultaneously.
Suction Positioning
The suction or saliva ejector is positioned between the upper and lower arches for patient comfort.
Treatment Application
The patient is asked to bite down slightly while the trays remain in the mouth for 1 minute.
Tray Removal
After the minute is up, the trays are removed, and the patient can spit the remaining fluoride into the suction.
Post-Treatment Care
For the fluoride treatment to work optimally, the patient should not eat, drink, rinse, smoke, or chew gum for 30 minutes after the application.
Fluoride Treatment
Indications
Fluoride treatments are beneficial for a wide range of patients seeking enhanced cavity protection:
When to Consider Fluoride Treatments
Children and Adolescents
Developing teeth benefit greatly from fluoride's enamel-strengthening properties during formative years when cavity risk is highest.
Patients with Dry Mouth
Reduced saliva flow from medications or medical conditions increases decay risk, making fluoride treatments especially valuable.
History of Frequent Cavities
Individuals prone to recurring decay can significantly reduce new cavity formation with regular fluoride applications.
Gum Disease or Recession
Exposed tooth roots lack protective enamel and are more susceptible to decay, benefiting from fluoride's protective effects.
Orthodontic Patients
Braces and appliances create areas difficult to clean, making professional fluoride treatments an important preventive measure.
Note: Fluoride treatments work best as part of a comprehensive preventive care routine including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups.
Benefits
Why Choose Fluoride Treatments?
Cavity Prevention
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars.
Remineralization
Helps reverse early signs of tooth decay by promoting the remineralization of weakened enamel surfaces.
Quick and Painless
The entire treatment takes just a few minutes and requires no drilling, injections, or discomfort.
Cost-Effective Prevention
Far more affordable than treating cavities with fillings, crowns, or other restorative procedures.
Safe for All Ages
Professional fluoride treatments are safe and effective for children, teens, and adults alike.
Long-Lasting Protection
Professional-strength fluoride provides enhanced protection that lasts for months between applications.
Alternatives
Dental Sealants
Physical barrier protection for the chewing surfaces of back teeth, often used in combination with fluoride treatments.
Fluoride Toothpaste
Daily home use provides ongoing protection but at lower concentrations than professional treatments.
Fluoride Rinses
Over-the-counter or prescription rinses offer supplemental protection between professional applications.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
A more concentrated fluoride solution that can arrest existing decay, particularly useful for pediatric patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Services
Locations Offering Fluoride Treatments
Available at all Philadelphia Dental locations throughout Philadelphia
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