Why You Should Get Fluoride Treatment for Your Child

Dentists encourage regular fluoride treatment for children to help prevent tooth decay and even reverse it in its early stages. Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral found in some natural water sources and foods, is one of the main building blocks of tooth enamel. Read on to learn more about this essential dental treatment for children.

Reasons to get your child a fluoride treatment

Let us take a look at some of the reasons why your child might need a fluoride treatment:

1. Prevents tooth decay

Tooth decay is the number one reason parents take their children to the dentist. Also known as cavities, tooth decay results from bacteria in the mouth creating acids that eat away at teeth structures. Tooth decay is a gradual process that never goes away on its own. Instead, the teeth-damaging acids will continue to harm teeth structures until part of a tooth falls out, or it leads to infection.

Fluoride treatments help to reverse the early stages of tooth decay and also help prevent it from occurring in the first place. In addition, the ions in fluoride treatments help harden tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acids.

2. Keeps teeth healthy

Fluoride is not just good for preventing tooth decay but also for keeping teeth healthy in general. Fluoride ions help to remineralize teeth, which means they help to repair any minor damage done to teeth structures. Also, fluoride treatments can help to reduce sensitivity by helping build up the outer layer of enamel on teeth.

3. It is safe and effective

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element, and dental practitioners have used fluoride treatments for decades. They are one of the most researched dental procedures and have proved safe and effective.

4. It is affordable

Fluoride treatments are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to other dental procedures. The cost of a fluoride treatment will depend on the dentist you visit and the type of treatment. However, it is usually one of the most affordable treatments provided by dentists.

5. It is quick and easy

Fluoride treatments are quick and easy and can be done in just a few minutes. Most fluoride treatments involve painting fluoride onto the teeth using a brush or gel.

What to expect during fluoride treatments

Fluoride treatments are not usually associated with discomfort. Your child may experience a slight tingling sensation when the fluoride is applied, but this should go away quickly. The treatment typically involves biting down on a mouth tray filled with fluoride for about a minute. The rinse is spat out afterward to complete the treatment.

After the fluoride treatment, your child should avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to absorb into the teeth.

Are there any risks associated with fluoride treatments?

Fluoride treatments have a good safety record. There are no known risks associated with fluoride treatments.