Fluoride Treatment

Dr. Nicholas Sowles offers fluoride treatment for adults & children. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been utilized for many years to help prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay begins when the bacteria & sugars present in the mouth form acids that erode the tooth’s protective enamel. These acids cause minerals to be lost from the tooth’s enamel layer, a process called demineralization. Left unchecked, this can lead to the formation of holes (cavities) in the teeth.

Fluoride helps strengthen the teeth through a process called remineralization wherein the mineral bonds to weakened areas of tooth enamel. It also disrupts acid production, helping to inhibit the process that leads to tooth decay.

Fluoride can benefit people of all ages. Children who get adequate fluoride while their teeth are still forming will develop permanent teeth that are stronger & more decay-resistant over a lifetime. Adults who are particularly susceptible to tooth decay also benefit from fluoride application.

While fluoride can help reverse early tooth decay & prevent cavities, it cannot heal cavities that have already formed. Therefore, it is a great & cost-effective strategy for maintaining dental health & preventing more expensive problems later on.

Don’t we get enough fluoride already?

Because the benefits of fluoride are widely recognized, the mineral is added in low concentrations to drinking water in many areas. It is also an ingredient in most toothpastes. However, children & individuals at increased risk of tooth decay can benefit from fluoride treatments that contain a much higher concentration of the mineral than is present in drinking water or in over-the-counter products. This type of treatment is only available from Dr. Sowles.

Who will benefit most from fluoride treatment?

•  Children whose permanent teeth have not yet developed. Early exposure to fluoride during childhood fortifies the permanent teeth before they even emerge, leading to teeth that are stronger & more decay-resistant for a lifetime.

•  Individuals with dry mouth. Saliva helps neutralize acid & protect the teeth. Therefore, those with conditions that cause dry mouth (including diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome & conditions that require radiation therapy) or who take certain medications (such as drugs for allergies, depression & high blood pressure) can benefit from fluoride treatment.

•  Those with a history of cavities. These individuals may be more susceptible to future decay.

•  Those with poor dental hygiene. Illnesses or conditions that limit one’s ability to brush or floss regularly can lead to the buildup of plaque & tartar, causing tooth decay.

•  Individuals who have crowns or bridges. Their teeth are particularly susceptible to decay at the point where the restoration meets the tooth.

•  Individuals with braces. Braces can trap food, making it harder to floss & brush adequately.

•  Frequent snackers & those with a high-sugar diet. Increased exposure to plaque & bacteria puts the enamel at greater risk.

•  Bottled-water drinkers & others who don’t get enough fluoride.

Is fluoride safe?

Fluoride has been in use for many years & has been approved as safe & effective by most major health & safety organizations. Although excessive amounts of fluoride for prolonged periods of time can harm the teeth & bones & very rarely, cause more serious problems, Dr. Sowles will ascertain whether you are a candidate for a fluoride treatment. The fluoride applied during a fluoride treatment is safe & effective.

Only one appointment is required for a fluoride treatment. Dr. Sowles will put a flavored fluoride gel or foam into a tray that resembles a mouth guard. This tray will be kept in the mouth for one to four minutes, after which you may spit the solution out. You will then be asked to refrain from drinking, eating, smoking or rinsing for 30 minutes. Some dentists use a different type of fluoride, called a varnish, which is painted on to the teeth rather than used with a tray.

At the office of Dr. Nicholas Sowles we use the latest technology & finest materials to offer fluoride treatments that are quick, comfortable & effective. We will provide instructions for the care of your teeth after treatment. While fluoride can help reverse early tooth decay & prevent cavities, proper oral hygiene, good eating habits & regular dental visits are necessary to aid in the life of your teeth.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about fluoride treatment or to schedule an oral health consultation with Dr. Sowles.