Fluoride Treatment (Cavity Prevention) in Tupelo, MS

The importance of fluoride to dental enamel has been confirmed by the ADA (American Dental Association), the WHO (World Health Organization), the American Medical Association (AMA), and several other medical groups. Communities that add fluoride to their water supply have fewer problems with cavities (tooth decay). A mineral found in the earth and some foods, fluoride builds up and helps to strengthen teeth and bones. Professional fluoride treatments at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can help younger patients with developing teeth and adults who are prone to decay protect their dental health and minimize their risk for cavities. Talk with general dentists Doctors Richard Caron and John Kenney during your dental exams and cleanings at our Tupelo, MS family practice to learn more about the benefits of fluoride treatments.

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, but they can lead to further concerns if left untreated. Fluoride treatments are easy and cost-effective, making them an ideal option for preventing cavities and tooth decay. With regular fluoride treatments, patients can strengthen their enamel and reduce the need for invasive dental treatments. Additionally, research has shown that fluoride may also reverse early signs of decay. By providing your teeth with a reliable source of fluoride, Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry may help you maintain a healthy smile for life.

Professional fluoride treatments may be given to patients of all ages, though they are usually provided to children whose teeth are developing or who may not maintain a good oral care routine at home. doctors Caron and Kenney may also suggest fluoride treatments for adult patients who do not have fluoride in their drinking water or who are prone to cavities. Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry may use different fluoride formulas to address special concerns, including neutral sodium fluoride for those with a dry mouth or acidulated phosphate fluoride for patients with dental restorations (crowns, bridges, partial dentures). There is also a choice of flavors to make treatments easier for both younger and older patients.

Professional fluoride treatments are generally performed every six months at the end of your dental cleaning visit. After your flavor is selected, a team member will prepare your fluoride treatment as a gel, foam, or paint-on varnish. The treatment will be kept on your teeth for up to five minutes, depending on the treatment, to allow the fluoride time to fully coat the enamel before you can spit it out. Our hygienists will use suction to help remove any excess fluoride after the procedure since you will not be able to rinse your mouth, eat, or drink for at least half an hour after.

Nausea and vomiting may occur if you accidentally swallow any fluoride, but this will usually subside within 24 hours following treatment. In certain cases, doctors Caron or Kenney may prescribe fluoride supplements to take between treatments. Since fluoride can be toxic in high doses, it is important to be cautious and keep supplements out of reach of children. While these treatments strengthen the enamel, you should also maintain a good home oral care routine by using a fluoridated toothpaste when brushing (at least twice per day) and flossing daily. Keeping up with routine dental exams and cleanings at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can allow our experienced team to continue to assess the need for professional fluoride treatments.

Are fluoride treatments safe?

Yes, they are. When properly applied as directed by dental professionals, fluoride treatments are very safe and provide beneficial effects to strengthen your teeth, but fluoride can be hazardous in high doses. That's why it is always recommended that children are supervised when using products containing fluoride. In rare cases, people exposed to too much fluoride (typically through drinking water) can develop fluorosis, which causes white specks to form on the teeth.

How often should you have a fluoride treatment?

It depends on your overall oral health, but in general, the ADA (American Dental Association) recommends that patients have fluoride treatments every 6 – 12 months. During your examination, we will examine your teeth to determine the best fluoride treatment schedule for your oral health.

When should children get fluoride treatments?

It is typically recommended that children have their first fluoride treatment when they get their first teeth at around six months. Depending on their risk for developing cavities, children should continue to have fluoride treatments every three to six months to strengthen their developing teeth and help prevent cavities from forming.

Ensure your family has strong, healthy smiles with professional fluoride treatments at Tupelo Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Doctors Caron and Kenney offer professional fluoride treatments for younger patients with developing teeth and adults who may be at risk for cavities. Contact our office in Tupelo, MS to schedule an appointment for a professional exam, dental cleaning, and preventive fluoride treatment.