Fluoride Treatment Casper
Helping Your Child Maintain a Healthy Smile
Regular preventive care can go a long way toward ensuring that your child is able to enjoy a healthy smile as they continue to grow. However, some kids may benefit from a bit of extra help when it comes to protecting their teeth from cavities. During your little one’s next dental visit, Dr. Paulson may suggest a fluoride treatment; this simple process can make a bigger difference than you realize in terms of your child’s oral health. To learn more about fluoride treatment and how it works, give our office a call today.
Why Choose Casper Children’s Dental Clinic for Fluoride Treatment?
- Children of All Ages Welcome
- Personalized Care for Children with Special Needs
- Office with Comfortable, Fun Environment for Kids
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that’s known for its ability to help strengthen enamel, which is the outermost layer of the teeth. Every day, the enamel loses some of its minerals as a result of exposure to acids produced by harmful oral bacteria. Fluoride can help the teeth regain these essential minerals, replenishing the enamel and ultimately making it more resistant to decay.
Fluoride can be found in ADA-approved toothpaste, and it’s often added to tap water. However, it can also be applied topically to the tooth via a fluoride treatment; this can be easily done at the end of a routine dental checkup.
How Does Fluoride Treatment Work?
For this treatment, your pediatric dentist will apply a concentrated form of fluoride to your child’s teeth. This might be a fluoride-based gel, solution, varnish, or foam. A brush, a tray, or a swab may be used to administer the fluoride.
A fluoride treatment can typically be completed in just a few minutes. It’s a painless process, so your child will be able to remain comfortable the entire time without the help of a local anesthetic.
After your child has received a fluoride treatment, they will need to refrain from eating or drinking for 30 minutes. This is to allow enough time for the fluoride to be absorbed into the teeth. Even after 30 minutes have passed, it’s generally best for your child to avoid certain foods, such as citrus fruits or anything that’s particularly spicy or crunchy.
Which Kids Benefit from Fluoride Treatment Most?
Children tend to benefit the most from fluoride while their teeth are still developing. On top of that, fluoride treatments are often recommended for patients who have an unusually high risk for cavities. There are several factors that can influence your child’s chances of suffering from tooth decay, such as their oral hygiene habits, their intake of sugar, and whether they have access to fluoridated water. Our team will let you know whether a fluoride treatment would be a good fit for your child based on their situation.