Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments are an easy way to gain more protection against cavities. Find out why it’s better than mouth rinses by clicking here.

Fluoride Treatments Offer Protection

One of the add-ons to dental exams offered at Avero Dental in Kitchener is fluoride treatments. Fluoride treatments are topical treatments that provide additional protection for children and adults at high risk of cavities. This is not a fluoride rinse given at the end of the dental cleaning and exam. This is another procedure that applies fluoride to your teeth.

Fluoride Is a Long-Standing Treatment

Fluoride has long been recognized in Canada as an effective preventive against cavities. Canada was the first country in North America to complete a pilot program to add fluoride to water to prevent cavities. Other countries later adopted similar programs. Fluoride is a natural mineral that teeth can absorb to provide greater strength and protection against bacteria that cause cavities.

How Fluoride is Applied

Fluoride treatments are not invasive and aren’t painful. In this treatment, our Avero Dental professionals apply fluoride to your teeth with a toothbrush. It is similar to a varnish, and it absorbs into your teeth over time. You do not rinse it off and shouldn’t eat for at least 30 minutes to an hour after application. A fluoride treatment doesn’t interfere with your other activities, like work or school.

Should You Get a Fluoride Treatment?

Anyone can get a fluoride treatment added to their dental visit. It can help anyone by enhancing their oral health care. It is most effective for the following:

The Cavity Crisis in Canada

Despite the best efforts of the Government of Canada and local dental clinics, cavity rates are rising in Canada, particularly in unfluoridated areas. Around 57% of children have cavities and that number has stablised in recent years. Yet, that is still more than half the children in Canada. Cavities and tooth decay are common for adult Canadians in both fluoridated and unfluoridated areas. More than 96% of adult Canadians have had at least one cavity, according to national health data. Fluoride treatments can help people protect their teeth.

Add a Fluoride Treatment to Your Next Visit

It is simple to add a fluoride treatment to a dental exam and cleaning. All you need to do is ask for it! Our staff can help you put it on your appointment schedule. Just call or contact us online today to schedule your exam and add a fluoride cleaning!

FAQ

Are fluoride treatments safe?

Absolutely. Fluoride is safe as a topical material on teeth. It strengthens enamel and offers protection against cavities.

How often do you need fluoride treatments?

It depends on your risk factor for cavities. You can get fluoride treatments every 3, 6, or 12 months.

Why can’t I eat immediately after getting a fluoride treatment?

Fluoride needs time to absorb into your teeth. You shouldn’t eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after a treatment.

Can a fluoride treatment reverse cavities?

Yes, a fluoride treatment can reverse a stage 1 cavity. It cannot reverse cavities beyond stage 1.

FAQs

What does fluoride actually do?

It strengthens enamel and can reverse very early decay before a cavity forms. It also reduces sensitivity.

Is fluoride safe?

Yes, at the doses used in dental treatment. The amount applied in office is carefully controlled.

How often should I have fluoride treatment?

Usually at each six month visit. Patients prone to decay or with dry mouth may benefit from it more often.

Do adults need fluoride?

Yes. Adults with gum recession, dry mouth, or a history of cavities often benefit as much as children.