Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay (cavities) by fighting acid-producing bacteria that turn into plaque. Fluoride, found in many foods and water, strengthens and protects tooth enamel to keep teeth strong and healthy.
Several studies have shown that community water fluoridation (regulating the amount of fluoride in drinking water) helps prevent tooth decay by about 25% in children and adults.
This article discusses fluoride treatments, their benefits, and their potential side effects.
Dental Health with Fluoride
To keep your teeth healthy, it is important to include fluoride in your daily oral hygiene routine. For many people, fluoride is added to their drinking water by their communities. In addition, people also use toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Both of these methods are effective ways to apply fluoride to your teeth. However, your dentist may recommend a dental fluoride treatment option if you need additional fluoride.
Procedure
While there are over-the-counter (OTC) fluoride treatments for adults and children, your dentist may recommend an in-office fluoride treatment. These include:
- Fluoride mouth rinses is a concentrated solution that you swish in your mouth and around your teeth as directed, usually once a day or week.
- Fluoride supplements they are available as a tablet or lozenge and are consumed by chewing or sucking the supplement before swallowing. Fluoride supplements can also be given as a liquid, which you swish in your mouth before swallowing.
- Fluoride gel and/or foam they are applied by your dentist and left on your teeth for several minutes before you can rinse.
- Fluorine varnish is an in-office treatment that is applied by brushing fluoride onto your teeth, where it will remain until absorbed by the teeth or brushed after several hours.
Do not use too much fluoride
Prescription or over-the-counter fluoride dental treatments contain a higher concentration of fluoride than OTC treatments and toothpaste. They should never be used without the supervision of your dentist.
Cost
The cost for a dental fluoride treatment varies by type, but usually starts at around $25. If you have dental insurance, your policy may cover certain fluoride dental treatments. It is important to discuss these treatments with your insurance provider before you get one at the dental office.
How much fluoride is needed?
For healthy teeth, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Most toothpastes have a fluoride range of 1,000–1,500 parts per million (ppm).
Parents with children younger than 2 should consult their health care provider, pediatrician, or dentist before starting a fluoride toothpaste. However, when your child cuts their first tooth, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a fluoride toothpaste “smear” twice a day.
Children ages 3-6 should use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. There are also lower concentrations of fluoride available for children under 2 (for example, 500 ppm).
Talk to your dentist about specific amounts of fluoride if you need extra fluoride.
Do not skip regular visits to the dentist
Visit a certified dentist at least once a year for a regular dental hygiene checkup. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to watch for any changes that could lead to tooth decay or gum disease, which will require treatment.
Benefits
Fluoride is essential for a healthy mouth and teeth. The benefits of fluoride include building strong teeth, protecting tooth enamel and fighting tooth decay. Fluoride also reduces the amount of acid in your teeth caused by bacteria.
Side effects
Like many other minerals, fluoride can be toxic if you consume it in high doses. However, if you brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, the amount is too small to pose a risk. If your dentist prescribes additional fluoride treatments, it is important to use them as directed.
Children age 8 and younger are at risk of developing dental fluorosis, or discoloration of their teeth, if they use too much fluoride over a long period of time. This is because their permanent teeth are below the gum line and are still growing.
Summary
Good dental hygiene includes fluoride in toothpaste and/or drinking water to help prevent tooth decay. If necessary, your dentist may recommend additional dental fluoride treatments. These treatments are a quick and easy way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. To keep your teeth healthy, it is important to brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
A word from Verywell
Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day goes a long way in keeping your teeth healthy and strong. Be sure to get a dental cleaning and checkup at least once a year and talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments.
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