Topical Fluoride Treatment for Your Child

Early childhood caries are a common dental concern affecting babies and preschool children worldwide. The use of fluoride can help decrease the risk of tooth decay in children.

Children can get fluoride from their diet, and from natural water. But, in certain cases, supplemental fluoride is required in order to prevent tooth decay.

Topical fluoride treatment involves the application of fluoride in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish directly to the surfaces of the teeth. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen enamel, the outer layer of the teeth, and makes them more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars in the mouth. Topical fluoride treatment is a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay and maintain optimal oral health.

If you are looking for a compassionate and experienced dentist in Murfreesboro, TN, contact Stonegate Family Dentistry at (615) 624-6919.

What Is Topical Fluoride?

Topical fluoride is a fluoride-containing agent applied directly to your child’s teeth either at home or in the dental office by a dental professional. 

There are various forms of topical fluoride available:

• Self-applied forms such as fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses that have lower concentrations of fluoride.
• Fluoride gels that have a higher concentration of fluoride but are not recommended for children younger than 6 years old due to the risk of toxicity if ingested.
• Professional fluoride treatments that a dentist in 37129 can apply in the form of an aqueous solution, viscous gel, prophylactic paste, or a dental varnish. Fluoride varnishes are the most commonly used as they make better contact with the tooth surface. Professional fluoride treatments contain more concentrated doses of fluoride than other options like toothpaste. Call us to learn more.

Benefits of Topical Fluoride Treatment:

• Strengthens Enamel: Fluoride works by remineralizing enamel, making it stronger and more resistant to decay.
• Prevents Tooth Decay: By strengthening enamel and inhibiting the growth of cavity-causing bacteria, topical fluoride treatment helps prevent cavities and tooth decay.
• Safe and Painless: Topical fluoride treatment is a quick and painless procedure that can be performed during a routine dental visit.
• Suitable for Children: Children are particularly susceptible to tooth decay due to their developing teeth and oral hygiene habits. Topical fluoride treatment provides an added layer of protection for their growing smiles.
• Cost-Effective: Topical fluoride treatment is a cost-effective preventive measure that can save you money on more extensive dental treatments in the future.

Professional Fluoride Treatments

The most commonly used agents for professionally-applied fluoride treatments are 2% sodium fluoride, 8% stannous fluoride, or acidulated phosphate with 1.23% fluoride. These treatments are applied to the teeth using a brush or placed in dental trays. The treatment is straightforward and only takes a few minutes. 

It is generally advised to get a fluoride treatment twice a year. The treatment should be continued until at least the age of 16.

Fluoride in prescribed doses is absolutely safe for children. However, too much fluoride in early childhood can lead to fluorosis, a condition that may result in white spots or pitting of the enamel. Most cases of fluorosis are mild, and getting too much fluoride is less common than not getting enough fluoride. 

For any assistance or support regarding maintaining your child’s oral health, contact Dentist in Murfreesboro TN, at (615) 624-6919 or visit us at 206 A N Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.