Fluoride

Using Fluoride to Protect Your Teeth

You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and visit the dentist every six months, but did you know that rinsing with fluoride — a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay — also helps keep your teeth healthy and strong?

Fluoride is effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay by coating your teeth and preventing plaque from building up and hardening on the tooth’s surface.

Fluoride comes in two varieties, systemic and topical

• Systemic fluoride is ingested, usually through a public water supply. While teeth are forming under the gums, the fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it stronger and more resistant to cavities. We DO NOT have fluoride in the Lancaster City Water.
• Fluoride can also be applied topically to help prevent caries (cavities) on teeth. It is delivered through toothpaste, mouthwash, and professional fluoride applications.

Receiving a fluoride treatment from your dentist

A fluoride treatment in our office takes less than 30 seconds. After the treatment, you will be asked not to eat anything crunchy or drink anything hot in order to allow your teeth to absorb the fluoride.

Depending on your oral health or the doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months. We may also prescribe an at-home fluoride product such as a mouthwash, prescription gel, or antibacterial rinse.

How to choose the right fluoride treatment

When choosing your own at-home fluoride product (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), always check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined by the ADA, and approved based on safety and effectiveness.

Take care of your teeth and smile bright with dental fluoride treatments!