Fluoride Treatments in Scripps Ranch
At Village Center Dentistry, Dr. Jennifer Santoro and our team believe in the importance of preventative dental care. We do our best to prevent dental problems before they start, so we can preserve the health and strength of your teeth as best possible. As our understanding of the microbiology of the mouth expands, we have developed more effective preventative techniques to offer our patients. We have learned that a very important part of keeping your teeth healthy and strong is getting enough fluoride. This mineral helps harden tooth enamel, making it more resistant to dental caries (i.e., cavities).
Understanding Fluoride
You can get fluoride a few different ways. First, you may already be getting fluoride through your water, as many fresh water and community water sources contain fluoride. Studies have shown that drinking fluoridated water may decrease the risk of cavities by as much as two thirds. You may also purchase special toothpastes or mouth rinses over the counter that are formulated with fluoride (be sure these products are marked with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Approval). Or you can take an oral fluoride supplement.
If you are not getting enough fluoride through the aforementioned methods, or you are at a higher risk of dental caries and need extra fluoride, you may opt for a professional in-office treatment with Dr. Santoro and our team. Professional fluoride treatments involve applying fluoride directly to your teeth in a gel or varnish form. Our fluoride treatments use a much stronger concentration of the mineral than what can be found in toothpastes or mouth rinses. Dr. Santoro also dispenses a prescription based fluoride toothpaste with all in-office fluoride treatments that is to be used nightly to have a daily boost of fluoride.
Professional Fluoride Treatment Benefits
You may benefit from an in-office fluoride treatment if you are at an increased risk of caries because of any of the following factors:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Active dental caries
- Eating disorders
- Dry mouth
- Defects in the tooth enamel
- Exposed tooth root surfaces
- Chemotherapy and radiation
- Receding gums
- Orthodontic therapy
Fluoride is also very important for children because it can strengthen tooth enamel before the tooth erupts. It helps stave off cavities by making it difficult for acid-producing bacteria to stick to the teeth.
Fluoride Treatment Details
Fluoride is primarily intended as a means of prevention. Although it may help reverse early forms of tooth decay, it cannot treat a hole in the tooth (i.e., a cavity).
Professional fluoride treatment is very safe, comfortable and quick. The procedure involves applying fluoride in the form of a varnish with a microbrush. Fluoride comes in different flavors to suit your individual taste. Dr. Santoro offers cherry and mint.
How to Ensure Best Results
After your fluoride treatment, you should not eat, drink or rinse your mouth for about 30 minutes. This gives your teeth a chance to absorb the fluoride, and for the fluoride to start repairing tiny areas of decay.
Learn More About Fluoride Treatments
For more information about professional fluoride treatments, or to book your next dental appointment, please call or email Village Center Dentistry today.
