Your teeth face daily attacks from acids, bacteria, and the foods you eat, gradually weakening the protective enamel that keeps cavities at bay. While regular brushing and flossing provide essential defense, professional fluoride treatments take protection to the next level by actively rebuilding and strengthening tooth enamel before damage becomes permanent.
At Floss & Co., Dr. Murphy, Dr. Silva, and our experienced team incorporate fluoride treatments into our comprehensive, patient-centered approach to preventive care. We believe in using advanced, evidence-based treatments to help patients maintain healthy smiles with minimal discomfort, making fluoride therapy an ideal addition to your personalized oral health plan.
How Fluoride Remineralizes Teeth
Fluoride works by promoting remineralization, a natural process where minerals are redeposited into tooth enamel after being removed by acids. When you eat or drink, bacteria in your mouth produce acids that dissolve the mineral structure of your teeth, creating weak spots in the enamel.
During remineralization, fluoride forms fluorapatite, which is actually stronger and more resistant to acid attacks than the original tooth enamel. This enhanced protection helps prevent future decay and can even reverse very early stages of cavity formation. By promoting tooth remineralization and curbing plaque bacteria, fluoride treatments can help you get ahead of cavities, which affect nearly 90% of all U.S. adults.
Professional vs. At-Home Fluoride Concentrations
Professional fluoride treatments deliver much higher concentrations than you would get from toothpaste or mouthwash alone. The controlled application ensures optimal coverage of all tooth surfaces, while the higher concentration means more effective remineralization. Our restorative dentistry services include these treatments as a cornerstone of preventive care, helping you avoid more extensive procedures in the future.
Benefits of Professional Fluoride Treatments
Professional fluoride treatments offer numerous advantages over store-bought fluoride products, providing enhanced protection through concentrated formulations and precise application techniques. The process occurs continuously throughout the day, but professional treatments provide a concentrated boost to maximize these protective benefits.
Enhanced Protection for High-Risk Patients
Children and teenagers receive particular benefits from fluoride treatments during periods of rapid tooth development. Adults with exposed root surfaces, orthodontic appliances like braces, or certain medical conditions may also experience enhanced protection. Our team can determine if fluoride treatments would benefit your specific oral health situation during your regular dental visits.
Common Fluoride Treatment Applications
We offer several types of professional fluoride treatments to meet all our patients’ unique needs. Our caring team works closely with you to choose which option would be best for your specific situation, which may include one of the following:
- Fluoride varnish provides long-lasting protection through a coating applied directly to teeth.
- Foam applications provide thorough coverage, utilizing custom trays for precise delivery.
- Gel treatments allow for extended contact time to maximize remineralization benefits.
- Prescription fluoride may be recommended for patients with high cavity risk.
The treatment process itself is quick and comfortable, typically taking just a few minutes. After applying, avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes to allow for maximum fluoride absorption.
How to Maintain Your Fluoride Treatment Results
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices helps maximize the benefits of professional fluoride treatments, creating an environment where remineralization can occur most effectively. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and using fluoride mouthwash create conditions that support the protective effects.
Daily Oral Hygiene Practices
Our dental fillings service can address any existing cavities before beginning preventive fluoride treatments. This comprehensive approach ensures your entire mouth receives optimal care. We also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques and dietary choices to complement your fluoride therapy. Regular dental visits allow our team to monitor the effectiveness of your fluoride treatments and adjust recommendations as needed.
Get Exceptional Dental Care With Fluoride Treatments at Floss & Co.
Fluoride treatments represent just one aspect of our commitment to helping patients achieve and maintain excellent oral health. Our practice combines advanced preventive treatments with a welcoming, patient-centered approach to dental care. We accept all major dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options, including financing through CareCredit and Lending Club, making quality dental care accessible to our community.
Dr. Murphy and Dr. Silva lead our team of highly qualified dental professionals, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to provide the safest, most effective treatments available. From preventive care, such as fluoride treatments, to comprehensive restorative and cosmetic services, we work with each patient to develop personalized treatment plans that meet their unique needs and goals. Contact us today at (773) 586-5522 or through our contact form to schedule your consultation.