Are you or your child prone to cavities? If so, we may recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel.
If your child is under the age of 6, their body uses fluoride to develop permanent teeth. Later on, this fluoride protects teeth from losing much-needed minerals.
Yet, you don’t have to be a child to benefit from fluoride treatments. Our dentists also offer fluoride treatments for adults. Fluoride protects your smile by strengthening your enamel so it’s less vulnerable to acid attacks from plaque.
Our dentists will apply fluoride directly to your teeth as a gel, foam, or varnish. Unlike toothpaste or mouth rinse, our fluoride treatments have a much higher concentration. Yet, at our office is completely safe for patients of all ages.
| Fluoride Gel | Painted on teeth or applied via a mouth guard |
| Fluoride Foam | Applied via a mouth guard for 1-4 minutes |
| Fluoride Varnish | Painted on teeth |
We may ask you to not eat or drink for 30 minutes after your fluoride treatment at the dentist. That way, you’re giving the dental fluoride enough time to soak into your tooth enamel. We want to give you the best chance to prevent cavities and gum disease.
At home, you’ll need to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once daily. Our dentists may also recommend swishing with fluoride mouth rinse once a day. That way, your teeth continue to resist decay.
Professional fluoride treatments use much higher concentrations than regular toothpaste and are applied as gel, foam, or varnish directly to teeth. The concentrated fluoride strengthens enamel and reverses early decay more effectively than over-the-counter products.
Fluoride treatments benefit all ages but are especially recommended for children, teenagers, and high-risk adults with frequent cavities, dry mouth, gum disease, or braces. Dr. [dentist_last] will assess your individual risk factors.
Most patients benefit from treatments every 3-6 months during regular cleanings. Children typically receive them at every visit, while high-risk patients may need more frequent treatments..
Yes, professional fluoride treatments are completely safe when administered by dental professionals. The controlled amount poses no health risks, and children should avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after treatment.
The treatment is quick, comfortable, and painless, taking 1-4 minutes to apply. You may taste a mild flavor and must avoid eating, drinking, or rinsing for 30 minutes afterward.
Yes, fluoride helps protect remaining natural tooth structure and prevents new cavities around existing dental work. It’s especially important for adults with multiple restorations who have higher decay risk.
Side effects are very rare, with the main restriction being no food or drinks for 30 minutes after treatment. Some patients may experience a mild, temporary aftertaste.
Our family dentists in Grandville, MI, can help you strengthen tooth enamel. To request an appointment, call the Grandville Dental Health Center at (616) 739-6001.