At Ackerman & Towson Dentistry, we recommend fluoride treatment to our patients as part of their routine dental hygiene and part of our preventive care in Brentwood, California. We also offer tooth extractions, cosmetic dentistry, and much more.
What is a Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride treatment is an effective way to protect your teeth from tooth decay and cavities. It is suitable for patients of all ages. We offer fluoride treatment as a routine procedure to help our patients maintain good oral health. Here are the typical steps involved in fluoride treatment and how it can benefit you.
Step 1: Assessment
The first step in the fluoride treatment process is a thorough dental examination. Our dentist will examine your teeth and gums to evaluate your oral health. If we find any issues like cavities or gum disease, we will recommend treatment before proceeding with fluoride application. We don’t recommend fluoride treatment for patients with severe gum disease or damaged enamel.
Step 2: Cleaning
Before applying fluoride, we will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar buildup. Cleaning helps to ensure that fluoride reaches the surfaces of your teeth effectively. We use special tools to scrape away any buildup and then polish your teeth to give them a smooth surface.
Step 3: Fluoride Application
After cleaning your teeth, we will apply fluoride to the surfaces of your teeth using a brush or a tray. We use a high-quality fluoride solution that is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay. The solution is applied to all surfaces of your teeth and left to sit for a few minutes. After that, we rinse the fluoride with water, and you can return to your daily life.
Step 4: Avoid Eating or Drinking
After fluoride treatment, you should avoid eating or drinking for at least thirty minutes. This allows your teeth to absorb the fluoride and provides maximum protection against cavities and decay. You should also avoid brushing your teeth for a few hours to allow the fluoride to continue to work.
Step 5: Schedule Regular Check-Ups
Fluoride treatment is most effective when we perform it regularly. Our dentist will recommend a frequency for fluoride treatment based on your oral health needs. You should continue to schedule regular dental check-ups to maintain good oral health and ensure your fluoride treatment is still effective.
What Are the Benefits of Fluoride Treatments?
Consider a fluoride treatment for yourself or your family for the following reasons.
Prevents Tooth Decay:
Studies have shown that fluoride can prevent tooth decay by up to 50%. It strengthens the enamel of your teeth, the protective outer layer that shields your teeth from decay-causing bacteria. Fluoride can also reverse the early stages of decay, protecting your teeth from further damage.
Safe and Effective:
Fluoride is a safe and effective dental treatment that dentists have used for decades. The American Dental Association recommends fluoride treatment for children and adults as part of their routine dental care. The procedure is quick and painless; we can apply it as a gel, foam, or varnish.
Improves Overall Oral Health:
Fluoride treatment can improve your overall oral health by reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth loss. It can also help reduce tooth sensitivity, making eating and drinking easier. Additionally, fluoride treatment can help maintain the whiteness of your teeth by preventing discoloration and staining.
Cost-effective:
Preventive dental care, including fluoride treatment, is more cost-effective than treating dental problems after they occur. By investing in fluoride treatment, you can save money in the long run by avoiding more expensive and invasive dental procedures.
Suitable for All Ages:
Fluoride treatment is suitable for all ages, from young children to seniors. It can be especially beneficial for children still developing their teeth and may be more susceptible to cavities. However, adults can also benefit from fluoride treatment to protect their teeth and maintain good oral health.
Fluoride Treatment in Brentwood
Fluoride treatment is a simple and effective way to maintain oral health and prevent tooth decay. It is safe, cost-effective, and suitable for people of all ages. At Ackerman & Towson Dentistry, we recommend regular fluoride treatment as part of your routine dental care.
If you have any questions or concerns about fluoride treatment or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kevin Ackerman or Dr. Eric Towson, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. Your health and smile are our top priority!