Fluoride Treatment in Holden, MA
At Holden Family Dentistry in Holden, MA, we focus on providing comprehensive, quality dental care for the whole family. This includes preventative dentistry treatments for children and adults like routine cleanings, exams, and fluoride treatments to strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay.
When you schedule an appointment at our dental office, our general dentist will discuss a fluoride treatment routine that fits your oral health needs.
What is fluoride, and what does it do for teeth?
Fluoride is a natural element found in water, soil, and rocks. It is also added to some types of toothpaste and mouthwashes. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks. It also helps to re-mineralize teeth that have been damaged by acid. In addition, fluoride promotes dental health by reducing the growth of plaque bacteria. When used correctly, fluoride can help to keep teeth healthy and strong.
Who should get fluoride treatment?
A regular schedule of fluoride treatment is recommended for most children between the ages of six months and sixteen years old, as this is when the teeth are developing. Adult patients who have a high risk of cavities or tooth decay may also need fluoride treatment. Your dentist will be able to tell you if fluoride treatment is right for you.
Dental Fluorosis
Dental fluorosis is a condition that can occur in patients who ingest too much fluoride while their teeth are developing. While the risk of developing dental fluorosis increases with the amount of fluoride a patient consumes, it is also determined by the patient’s age and the stage of tooth development. For this reason, it is essential to monitor fluoride intake carefully, particularly in children.
Although all people can benefit from fluoride treatment, patients at the highest risk for fluorosis are young children or people who live in areas with high levels of natural fluoride in the water supply.
How often should you receive fluoride treatment?
As the American Dental Association recommended, most adult patients should receive a professional fluoride treatment in their dental office 2-4 times per year, depending on the patient’s individual oral health needs. If you have good oral health, your dentist may recommend receiving fluoride at each six-month checkup appointment. However, patients at a higher risk for cavities and gum disease may benefit from more frequent treatments.
Fluoride treatments are quick and painless and are done right in the dental office during regular cleaning. They are a significant part of building an excellent oral health care routine. By strengthening teeth and protecting them from decay, fluoride treatments can help patients maintain a healthy smile.
Fluoride Toothpaste for Children
Toothpaste is another essential part of any oral health care routine, and fluoride toothpaste is especially beneficial for children and adults when it is used properly. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under two should not use toothpaste with fluoride. After the age of two, you should help your child use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste explicitly designed for children’s teeth. When used as directed, fluoride toothpaste is safe and effective for children.
If you have questions about when to start using fluoride toothpaste for your child, ask your dentist at your child’s next regular appointment. They can help you develop a dental care routine appropriate for your child’s age and developmental stage.
Cost of Fluoride Treatment
The cost of fluoride treatment varies depending on the dental office. However, most general dentists charge between $25 and $75 for a professional fluoride treatment. This price usually includes the application of fluoride varnish or gel.
Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of fluoride treatment as part of regular cleanings and preventative dentistry procedures. If you ever have questions about the cost of treatment, contact our office and speak with one of our team members.
Schedule Your Fluoride Treatment in Holden, MA, at Holden Family Dentistry
Ask our dentist about your fluoride needs at your next dental appointment. At our dental office in Holden, MA, your beautiful and healthy smile is our priority. We’re dedicated to ensuring that every patient has a customized dental care plan that meets their individual needs.
New patients should contact our office in Holden, MA, at
(508) 829-3292.
