Fluoride Treatment Carson, CA

Fluoride treatments are a proven way to reduce the risk of developing cavities in yourself or your child. Care Dental Center’s office in Carson offers this valuable service to all our pediatric and adult patients.

What Is a Fluoride Treatment?

A professional fluoride treatment involves applying concentrated fluoride in the form of a gel or foam to your teeth. It must be done in the office of Care Dental Center because the concentration of fluoride is higher than that found in store-bought products.

You won’t be able to eat or drink for half an hour after the treatment. This is to allow the fluoride time to be absorbed into the enamel before it is washed away.

How Do Fluoride Treatments Work?

Cavities get started when tooth enamel is broken down by bacteria and acids in the food you eat. Once the enamel is gone, decay sets into the underlying tooth and will eventually form a cavity that has to be removed and filled.

Fluoride treatments stop this process. They don’t replace enamel you’ve already lost, but they do strengthen and remineralize the enamel you have left, making it harder for cavities to start. Many studies have shown a positive reduction in the number of cavities both adult and pediatric patients develop after fluoride treatments.

Who Can Benefit from Fluoride Treatments?

Since the primary benefit of fluoride treatments is a reduced rate of cavities, anyone can benefit from these treatments, but they are especially helpful for anyone who’s at an increased risk of developing cavities. This includes children and anyone with weakened tooth enamel.

Are Fluoride Treatments a Substitute for Good Oral Hygiene?

No, they are meant to complement proper oral hygiene, not substitute for it. While a fluoride treatment will help reduce your risk of developing cavities, you should continue to brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and have your regular dental cleanings at our Carson office, or you will lose much of the benefits from your fluoride treatment.

Are Fluoride Treatments Safe?

Absolutely. While it’s true that fluoride is toxic in high enough concentrations, the amount used in dental work is at a safe level. This is true even if you’re also using fluoridated toothpaste at home and drinking fluoridated water.

The primary risks of fluoride treatments are allergic reactions and skin irritation, though both are rare. If you have concerns about the safety of fluoride treatments, please contact us here at Care Dental Center and we’ll be happy to speak with you about them.

How Old Do Children Need to Be To Get Fluoride Treatments?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children get a fluoride treatment to prevent cavities as soon as their teeth come in. For children under 6 years of age, dentists use a fluoride varnish instead of foam or gel to control the amount of fluoride the child is exposed to.

Fluoride treatments in children may be repeated as often as necessary, usually at least once per year. The AAP recommends that children at high risk of developing cavities have a fluoride treatment every 3-6 months. Children should also begin brushing their teeth as soon as possible, of course.

How Much Do Fluoride Treatments Cost?

Dental insurance usually covers most or all the cost of fluoride treatments due to their proven ability to prevent costly cavities. Your out-of-pocket costs should be minimal if you have dental insurance. If you don’t have dental insurance, the procedure costs between $10 and $30 per tooth. Please call our Carson office for more information.

Do You Want to Enhance Your Smile?

Call Care Dental Center at (310) 626-0004 today to make an appointment!

WHY CHOOSE US?

Flexible Appointment Times – Including Same Day!
Friendly Staff to Make Your Family Feel Safe and Comfortable
Priority Given for Dental Emergencies
Affordable Financing Options and Payment Plans Are Available

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