Fluoride is a mineral that is essential for healthy, strong teeth. As babies, fluoride makes teeth stronger and more resistant to decay before they erupt through the gum surface. After a child’s teeth grow in, fluoride remineralizes the teeth to strengthen weak enamel and reverse the early signs of decay. Most fluoride comes from our food and water supply. Sometimes our dentists at Lovett Dental Webster encounter pediatric cases in which a child may have weakened enamel because he or she does not receive adequate fluoride through nutrition. In these instances, our dentists may prescribe fluoride supplements for our pediatric patients.
How Children Can Receive the Fluoride They Need
For many children and adults, the primary source of fluoride is in our local drinking water. The mineral is naturally found in most water sources, including rivers, lakes, groundwater wells, and oceans. Some foods and beverages also provide the body with the fluoride it needs. Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwashes also help prevent cavities in children and adults. In some cases, children who live in areas that lack adequate fluoride in the water supply may require additional support. Fluoride supplements are available if your child shows signs that he or she does not appear to be receiving sufficient amounts of the mineral through water, food, drinks, and standard oral hygiene products.
Types of Fluoride Supplements
Fluoride supplements can come in several forms. For instance, we offer them in tablets, liquids, or lozenges. We prescribe these supplements for children who have a significant risk of tooth decay. If your drinking water has a low concentration of fluoride, we may also recommend fluoride supplements.
Your child’s dentist may also offer in-office fluoride treatments if they believe their teeth could benefit from the extra boost of protection. This type of treatment is fast and easy to administer. Fluoride treatments come in kid-friendly flavors to make the treatment palatable. Your dentist will typically offer this treatment after examining your child’s teeth during a routine cleaning visit. We also offer fluoride treatments to adults who would like to strengthen their enamel and are at moderate risk for developing dental cavities.
The fluoride supplements that your dentist will use are stronger than formulations that commonly appear in toothpaste products and at-home mouth rinses. The entire fluoride process will take only a few minutes. The treatment may be in the form of a gel, foam, rinse, varnish, or solution. Most dental offices simply administer the treatment as a rinse or place it in a tray similar to a teeth whitening solution. Then, they will apply the tray to the patient’s teeth. After your child receives a fluoride treatment, your dentist will likely ask you to help the child refrain from eating for 30 minutes following the treatment to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride and to absorb the mineral into existing dental caries.
Learn More at Lovett Dental Webster Today
Our highly skilled team of dentists at Lovett Dental Webster offers a comprehensive menu of services for the whole family. Trust our knowledgeable dentists as your partners in health as we provide the following services, including:
- Regularly scheduled cleanings and exams
- Orthodontics for all ages
- Periodontal treatment for gum disease
- Endodontics to heal and preserve your teeth
- Maxillofacial surgery for more severe cases
Next to providing effective, affordable, modern dental services, customer service is our top focus. Lovett Dental Webster aims to prescribe fluoride treatments and fluoride supplements that reflect each patient’s unique set of needs. Our staff will go the extra mile to ensure you and your family feel comfortable in our warm, supportive setting. Beyond simply treating each patient, we also aim to empower each client who visits our office with the knowledge he or she needs to maintain optimal oral health in-between visits. You will notice a positive difference in our level of care from the moment you enter our office.
To learn more about fluoride supplements, or to schedule your appointment for an exam or consultation, contact Lovett Dental Webster at 832-932-5584, or contact us online today.
