How Fluoride Treatments Can Benefit Kids & Adults

If you think a fluoride treatment at the dentist’s office is just for kids… think again! Fluoride can help protect and strengthen teeth no matter your age. Fluoride, which is a natural mineral, helps fortify your teeth and makes them less susceptible to sensitivity and decay.

Dentists typically offer a fluoride treatment to children and teens during regular dental visits because it helps keep developing teeth strong and resistant to cavities. But adults who are at an increased risk of developing tooth decay or who are suffering from specific dental health issues can benefit significantly from a periodic fluoride treatment.

Here are a few reasons kids and adults should consider regular fluoride treatments:

Certain food products contain fluoride, but it might not be enough to strengthen your teeth to their fullest potential. Keep in mind that you might not regularly eat the type of food that contains ample fluoride. Additionally, naturally occurring levels of fluoride are not as concentrated as a fluoride treatment available at the dentist’s office.

Public water supplies are often fortified with fluoride. Many local water systems add fluoride to promote healthy and strong teeth among the general public. If you or your children do not typically drink tap water, you might not reap the benefits of fluoride in your drinking water. Bottled water may or may not contain a beneficial amount of added fluoride.

Brushing and flossing without other preventative measures does not completely protect your teeth. While it’s absolutely true that brushing and flossing at least twice a day is incredibly important to maintaining your oral health, visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and getting enough fluoride are vital to the strength and health of your teeth.

Anyone who has a receding gum line or who has a dental crown or a filling can benefit from a topical fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps protect exposed roots. It also helps keep your teeth strong so they are less susceptible to further damage or decay.

Are you wearing braces? Anyone wearing braces can benefit from a fluoride treatment. It is challenging to brush and floss effectively when your teeth have metal brackets and wires attached to them. The periodic application of fluoride can protect your teeth and keep them stronger during your orthodontic treatment.

Because fluoride helps remineralize and increase the layer of enamel on your teeth, it makes your teeth less sensitive to hot and cold food, beverages, and outside air.

A topical fluoride treatment administered during a dental appointment is quick and easy. The application of fluoride takes just a few minutes and there is little or no discomfort. Many dental insurance companies cover the cost of fluoride for children under the age of 18. 

If you are an adult and you’re interested in learning more about fluoride and its benefits, make sure to talk with us at your next appointment. The cost of an adult fluoride treatment is minimal compared to the cost of a filling or another avoidable dental issue.