Fluoride Treatment in Murfreesboro, TN

The importance of fluoride to dental health has been shown by the ADA (American Dental Association), the WHO (World Health Organization), the AMA (American Medical Association), and many other medical groups. Cities that put fluoride in their drinking water have fewer cavities and problems with tooth decay. A mineral found in certain foods and the earth's crust, fluoride helps to strengthen bones and dental enamel. Fluoride treatments at Implant & General Dentistry in Murfreesboro, TN may help younger patients who have growing teeth and older patients with weakened enamels to improve their dental health. Get more information about fluoride treatments at your dental exam with family dentist Dr. Andrew Flipse.

Professional fluoride treatments may be administered to all patients, although it's most commonly given to children who have developing teeth or who have not developed a good oral care routine at home. Dr. Flipse also suggests professional fluoride treatments for older patients whose drinking water is not fluoridated or if they are susceptible to tooth decay. Implant & General Dentistry offers different formulas of fluoride if you have special concerns, such as neutral sodium fluoride for those with a dry mouth or acidulated phosphate fluoride for those with restorations (crowns, bridges, or dentures). We also offer a choice of flavors to make treatments easier for younger patients.

Professional fluoride treatments are typically done twice a year following your dental cleaning and exam. After your flavor is selected, the dental hygienist will begin to prepare your fluoride treatment as a gel, foam, or paint-on varnish. The treatment will be kept on your teeth for 1 – 4 minutes so the fluoride can sink into your enamel, then it can be removed. A suction tool may be used 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 half an hour afterward.

Nausea may take place if you accidentally swallow any fluoride; however, this will usually subside within 24 hours after your treatment. In certain patients, Dr. Flipse may prescribe fluoride tablets to use between treatments. Since it is toxic in large doses, you need to be cautious and prevent children from getting supplements. Although these professional treatments strengthen the teeth, you need to have a regular oral care routine at home by using a toothpaste with fluoride and flossing. You also need to scheduled dental exams and cleanings at Implant & General Dentistry so Dr. Flipse can continue to assess the need for professional fluoride treatments.

Many insurance companies pay for professional fluoride treatments for younger patients, but adults may not always be covered. If you do not have dental insurance, Implant & General Dentistry offers different payment methods and may be able to help you get financing.

Make sure your family has healthy, strong smiles with fluoride treatments at Implant & General Dentistry. Dr. Flipse recommends professional fluoride treatments for children with growing teeth and older patients who want to prevent cavities. Contact our office in Murfreesboro, TN to schedule a professional exam and cleaning, plus a fluoride treatment.