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Fluoride Treatment
If you want to strengthen tooth enamel and have a better chance at fighting tooth decay, it’s time to embrace fluoride beyond what your toothpaste provides. Our Largo, FL, dentist applies a high concentration of fluoride directly to your teeth, enhancing their resistance to cavities. Overall, fluoride treatment is quick, non-invasive, and highly beneficial for patients of all ages.
Here’s what you should know about this preventive service and the .
What Fluoride Is & Why It’s Safe
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in some capacity in almost all foods and water supplies. Its main benefit in oral health is its ability to strengthen tooth enamel, which is the outer protective layer of each tooth. This makes the teeth more resistant to decay and helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before the damage is visible.
Extensive research has shown that fluoride is not only effective but also safe when used as directed or when consumed in typical amounts found in community water supplies. The use of fluoride in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash, as well as in professional treatments, adheres to strict safety guidelines to ensure it poses no risks to health.
How Long Does Fluoride Treatment Take?
Fluoride treatments are quick and painless, typically requiring only a few minutes during a dental visit. The process involves our hygienists applying a high concentration of fluoride to the teeth in the form of a varnish and a small brush or their gloved fingers.
The fluoride needs to remain in contact with the teeth for several minutes to maximize its efficacy. After the treatment, patients are usually advised not to eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to fully absorb and to maximize its beneficial effects. Because of its simplicity and the brief time commitment involved, fluoride treatment can easily cap off a regular teeth cleaning.
Ask Our Team About Fluoride Today
Whether you are at increased risk for tooth decay, have seen early signs of enamel wear, or simply want to maintain optimum oral health, fluoride can play a crucial role. If you’re interested, our dentist in Largo, FL, can address any concerns about safety, explain the procedure, and help you understand how fluoride fits into a comprehensive plan for dental health. Call or text David W. Piper, DMD Family Dentistry today at (727) 548-7100 to request an appointment.