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 the mouth feed on the starches and sugars and release acids that disintegrate the protective enamel layer of the teeth. If teeth enamel breaks down, tooth cavities and tooth decay occur. Children are known to eat sugary foods and drinks which is another reason they are more prone to getting cavities. 

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

• Fluoride makes teeth stronger
• Fluoride prevents acid attacks
• Fluoride can reverse early tooth decay and prevents cavities
• Fluoride promotes remineralization

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 being consumed and can result in white spots on the enamel. Most cases are mild and fluorosis is not very common.

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?

Your pediatric dentist in Centerville, UT will 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. 

Fluoride varnish is very popular as it works faster and is the more tolerated treatment option. Your pediatric dentist will paint the varnish on your child’s teeth post their teeth cleaning treatment. The process takes a few minutes and is 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, UT 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. 

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.

Is Fluoride Treatment Painful?

Fluoride treatment is not painful. Your pediatric dentist in Centerville, UT will apply a thin layer of fluoride varnish 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!