Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatment protects your child’s teeth from cavities and harmful bacteria. At Pinellas Pediatric Dentistry in Largo and Seminole, Florida, board-certified pediatric dentist Nancy Montgomery-Easley, DMD, and her team use fluoride treatment to reduce the risk of tooth decay and encourage good oral health. The procedure presents no risks and helps keep your child’s smile healthy and problem-free. Call the nearest Pinellas Pediatric Dentistry office to schedule fluoride treatment for your child, or book an appointment online today.

How does fluoride treatment protect my child’s teeth?

Fluoride treatment uses fluoride –– a mineral found in many foods and water –– to strengthen your child’s tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

Your child’s tooth enamel changes composition every day. It loses minerals due to biting, chewing, and brushing; but gains them by eating foods with fluoride, calcium, and phosphate.

Your child is more likely to have cavities if they don’t brush their teeth or eat and drink sugary foods and beverages. Fluoride treatment reduces this risk by strengthening tooth enamel and protecting it from general wear-and-tear.

Are there different types of fluoride treatment?

The Pinellas Pediatric Dentistry team offers several types of fluoride treatment to children and teens, including:

Foam fluoride

During foam fluoride treatment, your child wears a custom mouthpiece over their upper or lower teeth. Their dentist lines the tray with a fluoride foam that their tooth enamel absorbs.

Fluoride varnish

Fluoride varnish is applied directly to your child’s teeth with a small brush. After application, the fluoride dries, providing a protective barrier lasting several months.

Fluoride gel

Fluoride gel can be applied with a custom mouthpiece (like foam) or a brush (like varnish). The gel works the same: It strengthens and protects your child’s tooth enamel from decay.

Why is fluoride treatment so necessary for children and teens?

Children and teens need fluoride treatment because it’s vital to supporting tooth formation and health. Studies show that fluoride strengthens and protects baby teeth as much as permanent teeth.

What happens during pediatric fluoride treatment?

Pediatric fluoride treatment is a quick and painless procedure that takes 5-10 minutes.

The Pinellas Pediatric Dentistry team usually applies fluoride treatment during a routine dental exam and cleaning. Depending on your child’s age and dental records, they might recommend treatment with fluoride foam, varnish, or gel. After application, your child’s teeth absorb the fluoride, which lasts for several months.

What are the benefits of pediatric fluoride treatment?

Pediatric fluoride treatment at Pinellas Pediatric Dentistry offers various benefits, including:

• Less cavity-causing bacteria
• Slowed tooth demineralization
• Reversal of early tooth decay
• Remineralized tooth enamel

The team uses small amounts of fluoride to ensure your child’s safety and maximize the treatment results.

Call the nearest Pinellas Pediatric Dentistry office to schedule your child’s pediatric fluoride treatment, or book an appointment online today.