Fluoride Treatment in Midland, MI

Fluoride treatment is an important part of improving dental enamel and has been proven by the American Dental Association (ADA), the WHO (World Health Organization), the American Medical Association (AMA), and several other professional organizations as a vital part of ensuring oral health. Communities that put fluoride in their drinking water have fewer cavities and problems with tooth decay. A mineral found in the earth, as well as some foods, fluoride helps to strengthen bones and teeth. Professional fluoride treatments at Knight Dental Care in Midland, MI can help children with developing teeth and older patients with decaying enamel to restore their oral health. Get more information about fluoride treatments during your appointment with cosmetic dentist Dr. Edward Knight.

There are many benefits to fluoride treatments, including:

• Prevention of cavities and decay
• Restoration of minerals to the teeth
• Enamel protection
• Able to be used on children and adult patients
• Quick and effective treatments in the office

Professional fluoride treatments may be given to all patients, however, they are typically given to younger patients who have developing teeth or who have not developed a good oral care routine at home. Dr. Knight also suggests professional fluoride treatments if your drinking water is not fluoridated, or you are susceptible to cavities. Knight Dental Care provides different formulas of fluoride if you have special needs, including neutral sodium fluoride if you have dry mouth or acidulated phosphate fluoride if you have restorations (crowns and bridges). There are also a variety of flavors to make these treatments easier for younger patients. To see if you could use a fluoride treatment, call our Midland, MI office today.

Professional fluoride treatments are usually performed twice a year after your cleaning. After your flavor is selected, our hygienist will prepare the treatment as a foam, gel, or paint-on varnish. It will be kept on for several minutes so the fluoride can penetrate the enamel, then you can spit it out. The hygienist will use suction to help clear your mouth after the treatment since you will not be able to rinse your mouth, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes after. 

Mild nausea can occur if any fluoride is accidentally swallowed, but it typically subsides within 24 hours after your appointment. In some cases, Dr. Knight may give fluoride supplements or fluoridated toothpaste to be used at home. Because fluoride can be hazardous in large quantities, adults should be careful to keep fluoride solutions out of reach of babies and toddlers. Although fluoride solutions help to safeguard from cavities, it is still essential to regularly brush the teeth with fluoridated toothpastes and floss every day. Our dental professionals also urge you to attend routine dental exams and cleanings at Knight Dental Care so Dr. Knight can assess your total dental health.

How many times should you get fluoride treatment?

Fluoride treatment is an easy way to protect your smile from tooth decay and cavities. The ADA recommends fluoride treatment every six or 12 months, depending on your oral health. If you are at risk of dental cavities in Midland, MI, more frequent treatments may be recommended.

Are there any side effects of fluoride?

As with any dental treatment, fluoride can cause some unwanted side effects. Too much fluoride can cause nausea and stomachaches, as well as a condition called fluorosis, which causes discoloration or white marks on the teeth. Dr. Knight can provide more information about fluoride treatment side effects at our office.

How else can I prevent cavities?

Proper oral hygiene is essential for you and your children. In addition to fluoride treatments, make sure you brush your teeth twice daily and use an approved antibacterial mouthwash. Continue to visit Knight Dental Care for routine dental checkups and call if you experience any problems with your teeth or gums.

Make sure your family has healthy, strong smiles with professional fluoride treatments at Knight Dental Care. Dr. Knight recommends fluoride treatments for younger patients with developing teeth, as well as older patients who would like to avoid cavities. If you have questions about our fluoride treatments, cost, financing, or insurance, or would like to schedule an appointment, call Knight Dental Care today.