Fluoride Treatment: Benefits, Side Effects, and Recommendations

Fluoride is a mineral found in all-natural water sources. For decades, fluoride has played a vital role in treating oral health problems and helping to fight the bacteria that cause dental problems. Fluoride essentially supports healthy tooth enamel, helps build strong teeth, and keeps cavities at bay. 

Fluoride Treatment

During a fluoride treatment, your dentist will apply a high concentration of fluoride to your teeth to reduce the risk of cavities and improve oral health.

This treatment is given in the form of a gel, foam, varnish, or concentrated rinse. It can be applied in a few minutes with the help of a swab, tray, brush, or mouthwash. You can use high-concentration fluoride treatments at home, but take it only under your dentist’s recommendation. It is advised not to eat or drink for 30 minutes after the treatment so the fluoride can get fully absorbed. Fluoride treatment generally costs between $10 and $30, but it can cost more in certain cases.

Benefits of Fluoride Treatment

Poor oral hygiene is the root cause of many health problems, including cardiovascular disease. Fluoride treatment is known to improve dental health, which in turn can improve overall health. 

• It helps the body to better use minerals like phosphate and calcium.
• By targeting the cavity-causing bacteria, it helps to slow down and even reverse the development of cavities.
• It prevents the growth of harmful oral bacteria.
• t rebuilds weakened tooth enamel.
• It is useful in slowing down the loss of minerals from tooth enamel.
• This treatment may also prevent gum disease, reduce tooth pain, and prevent premature tooth loss.

Side Effects of Fluoride Treatment

Excess of fluoride can cause harmful effects. Many health advocates argue that fluorides are not safe for children. Other side effects may include:

• Fluoride may stain your teeth
• High dosage may lead to bone homeostasis
• Too much can cause dense and weak bones
• Overdose of fluoride supplement pills may cause diarrhea, nausea, tiredness, and excessive sweating 
• It can be fatal in certain cases and should be kept out of children’s reach.

Fluoride treatment recommendations

The ADA recommends exposure to small amounts of fluoride every day for reducing the risk of dental cavities. This means brushing teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and drinking tap water with optimal fluoride levels.

Fluoride treatment is recommended for children as soon as their teeth start growing to prevent toothache, decay, and future dental problems. Dentists suggest getting professional fluoride treatments twice a year for adults who are at high risk of cavities.

If you want to get a fluoride treatment done, get in touch with your dentist in Ames at Campustown Dental. Please visit our website to request an appointment or call us at 866-757-0057.