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01Why it matters
Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps make tooth enamel stronger. Enamel is the hard outer shell of each tooth. Every day, acids from germs and sugary foods pull minerals out of enamel. Fluoride helps put those minerals back and makes enamel harder for acid to break down.
This can stop an early cavity from growing. It can even help repair the first weak spots before a hole forms. The American Dental Association and the CDC say fluoride is safe and works well at the amounts they recommend.
Text version of this infographic
Fluoride is a mineral that makes tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to acid. It can help repair early weak spots before they become cavities. You get it from fluoride toothpaste, from tap water in many areas, and from treatments a dental team paints on the teeth.
02How it works
You get fluoride in a few ways. Fluoride toothpaste is the main one. Many towns also add a small amount to tap water. A dentist can put a stronger form right on your teeth during a visit.
The in-office kind is often a varnish. Varnish is a sticky coating that is painted onto the teeth with a small brush. It sets when it touches saliva and keeps giving off fluoride for a few hours. Some offices use a gel or foam in a mouth tray instead.
03What happens
[OFFICE TO CONFIRM: in-office fluoride treatment offered, and for which ages]. Where it is used, a visit often goes like this:
- Exam. The dentist checks your teeth and decides if extra fluoride would help.
- Drying the teeth. The teeth are wiped or dried so the fluoride sticks well.
- Applying it. Varnish is brushed on, or gel is placed in a tray. It takes only a few minutes and needs no shot.
- Aftercare. You may be asked to skip hot drinks, hard foods, and brushing for a short time. Follow what the team tells you.
04Who may need extra fluoride
Children often gain the most, since their teeth are still forming. Adults can benefit too. The dentist may suggest it if you have had many cavities or have a dry mouth. Braces, weak tooth enamel, and gums that have pulled back from the teeth can also raise your risk.
05Cost factors
What you pay depends on a few things, and the office can explain them before treatment:
- Whether it is done alone or as part of a cleaning and exam.
- The type used, such as varnish or gel.
- Your dental insurance plan, since some plans cover fluoride differently for children and adults. Call the office to check your plan.
- Whether you choose to use CareCredit, a healthcare financing option the office accepts.
06How to protect your teeth
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth once a day. Spit out the extra toothpaste instead of rinsing it all away. That way, some fluoride stays on your teeth.
For children under age 3, use a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. From ages 3 to 6, use a pea-size amount. Help your child brush, and teach them to spit it out, not swallow it. Keep toothpaste out of their reach.
Limit sugary snacks and drinks between meals. Ask the dentist about dental sealants for your child's back teeth. Keep up with regular checkups so problems are caught early.
Want to protect your child's teeth? See our kids dentistry page.
07Questions people ask
Is fluoride safe for children?
Yes, at the amounts the American Dental Association and the CDC recommend. The main risk comes from swallowing too much toothpaste while teeth are forming. That can cause faint white marks on the teeth. Use the right amount of toothpaste and help kids spit it out.
How often should my child get a fluoride treatment?
It depends on your child's risk of cavities. Kids at higher risk may get it at each checkup. The dentist will suggest a schedule after looking at your child's teeth, diet, and brushing habits.
Do adults need fluoride treatments?
Some do. Adults with a dry mouth, many fillings, exposed roots, or frequent cavities may benefit from extra fluoride. The dentist can tell you if it makes sense for you after an exam.
Can I eat after a fluoride treatment?
Usually yes, but you may be told to stick to soft foods and cool drinks for a while. You may also be asked to wait before brushing. Follow the team's instructions so the fluoride has time to work.
Dr. Sadek is the family dentist at Americana Family Dental on Americana Blvd in Orlando. He reviews the health information on this site. Review date: [date pending review]