Patients who have cavities or who have a tendency to have oral health problems may benefit from Fluoride Treatment in Indianapolis IN. Before beginning this type of treatment, it’s best to learn the basics about how it works. Here is all the essential info on fluoride treatments.
How is a Fluoride Treatment Applied?
It depends on the type of fluoride treatment. The most common kind of fluoride treatment is topical fluoride. The dentist places it directly on the teeth, where it protects the tooth enamel. The other type of fluoride treatment is systemic fluoride, which is taken orally. This type of fluoride treatment is usually found in the form of fluoridated liquid (usually enhanced water) or sometimes in the form of supplements. The dentist may recommend that patients use both topical and systemic fluoride for the optimal results.
Candidacy for Fluoride Treatments
The dentist will determine candidacy for fluoride treatments after performing a thorough oral examination. Patients who have poor oral hygiene habits, a high number of cavities, eating disorders, or a history of alcohol abuse may be good candidates for fluoride treatments. Young children may also be good candidates for fluoride treatments because they may tend to be less careful with their brushing and flossing. Fluoride treatments can help protect all teeth, but are especially good at protecting the molars since they’re usually harder to reach when brushing and flossing.
The Fluoride Treatment Process
The dentist applies topical fluoride in the office during an appointment that takes only a few minutes. It’s usually applied with a swab or soft bristle brush. Patients are usually told to avoid drinking or eating for at least half an hour to allow the tooth enamel to absorb the fluoride as fully as possible.
The frequency of treatments depends on the individual patient and their needs. Patients may need the treatments as often as every three months, but many patients need only one fluoride treatment per year. If patients use systemic treatments as well, they’ll usually do these treatments at home on a daily basis. Curious about how fluoride treatment in Indianapolis IN can help? Click here to learn more now.
