Fluoride Treatment in Wyomissing, PA

The significance of fluoride in improving dental health as a cavity prevention method has been acknowledged by the American Dental Association (ADA), the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Medical Association (AMA), and other professional groups. Municipalities that add fluoride to their water supply generally have fewer problems with cavities (tooth decay) among community members. A mineral naturally found in some foods, fluoride helps to strengthen bone tissues and tooth structures. Fluoride treatments may be recommended by our experienced general and pediatric dentists to help reduce the risk of cavities in children as they develop and adults who are more prone to developing cavities. Learn more about the benefits of fluoride treatments during your routine dental cleaning visits at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics in Wyomissing and Reading, PA.

Professional fluoride treatments may be administered to all patients, though they are typically given to younger patients who have developing teeth or individuals who may be at a higher risk of developing cavities. Our dental experts may also recommend fluoride treatments for adult patients who do not have fluoride in their drinking water or have a history of tooth decay. Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics offers different fluoride formulas to address specific concerns. We also offer a choice of flavors to make treatments easier for both younger and older patients.

Fluoride treatments are generally performed every six months after a general or pediatric dental cleaning. As soon as you or your child select your choice of flavor, a member of our clinical team will begin to prepare the treatment as either a gel, foam, or paint-on fluoride varnish. The treatment may be kept on the teeth for 1 – 4 minutes so the fluoride can penetrate the enamel before it can be spit out. We will use suction to help remove any excess fluoride after the procedure since you will not be able to rinse out your mouth, drink, or eat for at least 30 minutes after.

Stomach problems can occur if any fluoride is swallowed accidentally; however, this should diminish within 24 hours following treatment. In certain cases, one of our dentists may provide a prescription for fluoride supplements to be used at home. Since fluoride can be toxic in large doses, it is very important to monitor their use and prevent children from accessing supplements. Professional fluoride treatments help to strengthen the enamel, but it is still essential to maintain a regular oral care routine at home, including brushing with a toothpaste with fluoride and flossing each day. During your family's routine dental exam and cleaning visits at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics, we will continue to reassess the need for fluoride treatments.

Many dental insurance companies cover professional fluoride treatments for younger patients, but treatments for adults may not always be covered. We work to help you get the most coverage through your insurance company before calculating any out-of-pocket expenses. If you do not have dental insurance, Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics accepts several easy payment methods and can help you apply for special financing to make your family's dental visits even more affordable.

How will fluoride protect teeth?

Fluoride varnish has a mineral in it that is known to strengthen the enamel of teeth, which can help fend off cavities. Fluoride paste is often applied in the mouths of children to protect their teeth as they learn proper dental hygiene habits and in hard-to-reach spots, such as the molars.

How much of a difference does fluoride make in protecting you against tooth decay?

Fluoride gel for the teeth has proven to decrease tooth decay, as it creates a sort of protective barrier around the teeth. With the addition of proper brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits, you can have healthy teeth for years to come.

Can you have too much fluoride?

Prior to providing fluoride, we will monitor your teeth to ensure we only provide fluoride varnish when necessary. It can be applied up to four times a year safely. While some drinking water does have fluoride in it, it's not likely enough to cause harm. If you live in a community with water without fluoride, we suggest getting fluoride varnish applied regularly throughout the year to protect your teeth.

Ensure your family has healthy, strong teeth with professional fluoride treatments for adults and children at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics. Our experienced general dentists recommend professional fluoride treatments for younger patients and adults who are at risk for tooth decay. Contact our offices in Wyomissing and Reading, PA to schedule a dental cleaning and exam with a fluoride treatment or to learn more about our preventive care solutions.