Dentists provide professional fluoride treatments in the form of a highly concentrated rinse, form, gel or varnish. The treatment may be applied with a swab, brush, tray or mouthwash.
These treatments have much more fluoride than what’s in your water or toothpaste. Treatment takes only a few minutes to apply. You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after the treatment so the fluoride can fully absorb.
The american dental association recommends a professional fluoride treatment at your dentist’s office every 3, 6 or 12 months, depending on your oral health.
Benefits:
- Fluoride works by restoring minerals to tooth surfaces where bacteria may have eroded the enamel.
- It inhibits the growth of harmful oral bacteria and further prevents caries.
- It is simple and painfree.
Side effects:
Like any medication, too much fluoride can cause negative complications.
- White specks on mature teeth
- Staining and pitting on teeth
- Problems with bone homeostasis
- Very dense bones that aren’t very strong