Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride Treatment in Centerville, UT

As a parent, it is important that you encourage healthy dental care practices for your children, such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups and cleanings. While children’s teeth are often more prone to cavities, many parents are electing fluoride treatment for their kids. Fluoride treatment is an important step to introduce to your child when they are of an appropriate age.

Fluoride is naturally occurring and is a proven way to prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral commonly added to dental products and water. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the consumption of fluoridated water decreases cavities by about 25% in children.

Your pediatric dentist at Children’s Dentistry will consult with you to provide the best oral treatment plan depending on your child’s unique case.

Why Is Fluoride Treatment Important?

When children eat or drink, the bacteria found in their mouth feed on the starches and sugars and release acids that disintegrate the protective enamel layer of their teeth. If tooth enamel breaks down, cavities and tooth decay occur and the bacteria becomes destructive to their little smiles. Children are known to eat sugary foods and drinks which is another reason they are more prone to getting cavities, as well as not having a fully developed brushing routine yet. 

Fluoride is important for your child’s oral health because:

• Fluoride makes teeth stronger with an added layer of protection
• Fluoride prevents acid attacks and neutralizes harmful acids before they develop
• Fluoride can reverse early tooth decay and prevent cavities by eliminating the problem at the source
• Fluoride promotes remineralization, introducing helpful minerals for added protection

Is Fluoride Treatment Safe?

Fluoride treatment for children is safe, given the correct dose administered by a pediatric dental professional. Fluoride treatment has been endorsed and encouraged by multiple health organizations and is a very popular preventative dental service for children. 

Proper administration is vital as fluorosis can occur in early childhood. Fluorosis takes place when too much fluoride is consumed and can result in white spots on the enamel. Most cases are mild, and fluorosis is not very common. No two smiles are the same, and our one-on-one approach means your child gets exactly what they need, and nothing they don’t.

If you are concerned about your child’s fluoride intake, your pediatric dentist in Centerville, UT, will consult with you to provide the best fluoride treatment plan depending on your child’s unique case.

What Is A Fluoride Treatment?

Dr. Nelson will gently apply topical fluoride to your child’s teeth. Topical fluoride treatments for children come in different forms, such as foam, gel, varnish, or a fluoride tray that your child bites into. With so many options, we’re bound to find the method most comfortable for your child.

Fluoride varnish is very popular as it works faster and is the more tolerated treatment option. Our pediatric dentist will paint the varnish on your child’s teeth after their teeth cleaning treatment. The process takes a few minutes and is completely painless!

How Does Fluoride Treatment Work?

Fluoride treatments for children work when their saliva comes into contact with the treatment. Dentists recommend that children wait about half an hour before they eat or drink again and 4 to 6 hours before brushing their teeth. 

When Should You Start Fluoride Treatment?

Your pediatric dentist in Centerville will recommend your child get a fluoride treatment twice a year unless they have a high risk for tooth decay, which will result in more frequent treatments. It’s on a per-child basis, and we will give you all the information you need after a checkup to make the best decisions for your child.

At your child’s first dental visit, your dentist will talk about your child’s fluoride intake which will determine whether or not it would be beneficial for them to start fluoride treatments. Fluoride treatments are crucial while teeth are still developing and should continue until your child is at least 16 years of age for a healthy, strong set of teeth.

Is Fluoride Treatment Painful?

Fluoride treatment is not painful. Dr. Nelson will apply a thin layer of fluoride varnish, or one of the other many methods, on your child’s teeth which will be quick and painless.

How Much Does Fluoride Treatment For Children Cost?

Your pediatric dentist will advise on all costs for your child’s fluoride treatment. Treatment costs are inexpensive and generally range from $25 to $75. 

Start Your Child’s Smile Journey With Fluoride Treatment in Centerville, UT Today

If you would like to learn more about fluoride treatment for your child, give us a call today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced and compassionate team will be delighted to assist you!