Effective Fluoride Treatment for Patients in the Las Vegas, NV, Area
Fluoride treatment is the gold standard in general dentistry for preventing tooth decay. Fluoride is a mineral naturally present in food and water supplies, and it has been known for over 50 years that it strengthens tooth enamel and promotes dental health. If you are looking for dental care or fluoride treatment in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area, turn to Radiant Smiles. Our professionals can perform a dental exam and create a personalized treatment plan to address your needs.
How Does Fluoride Treatment Work?
Tooth enamel comprises minerals, including fluoride, calcium, and phosphate. Eating and drinking will remove these minerals and wear down your tooth enamel over time (this is called demineralization). Topical fluorides, such as fluoridated toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels, remineralize tooth enamel, strengthening the outer surface and making the teeth more resistant to decay.
The other way to get fluoride is systemic. Systemic fluoride is present in food and water supplies and is also available as prescription tablets or drops. It strengthens teeth that have not erupted (still developing under the gums) and is beneficial for people not exposed to enough topical fluoride.
Fluoride Treatments for Children
Dentists and dental hygienists recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups to reduce the risk of cavities. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children start fluoride treatment after their first tooth erupts to prevent decay and dental problems.
If a child needs supplemental fluoride, drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for older children and teenagers. While it’s hard to reach toxic levels of fluoride, it is critical to monitor how much fluoride a child ingests and ensure they don’t swallow fluoridated toothpaste, especially if they are under six years old. Also, if children consume too much fluoride while their teeth develop, they may get fluorosis, which causes white spots on the teeth.
Other Reasons for Fluoride Treatment
Although most people receive adequate fluoride from food, water, and fluoridated dental products, it’s sometimes not enough to help prevent tooth decay. If a patient has recurrent cavities or extremely worn enamel, dentists and dental hygienists can apply fluoride varnish, foam, or gel to remineralize and strengthen the teeth. These fluoride treatments may even reverse the early stages of decay.
Dentists might recommend professional fluoride treatments for children and adult patients who have:
- Inadequate exposure to fluoride
- Insufficient saliva flow or dry mouth due to health conditions, treatments, or medications
- Pits and fissures on the surfaces of their teeth that may harbor food and bacteria
- Exposed and sensitive tooth roots (remineralizing the root protects it from the oral environment and can reduce sensitivity)
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- High sugar and carbohydrate intake
- A history of tooth decay and cavities
It’s important to note that fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay. You must practice good dental hygiene habits—always brush and floss twice daily (and after eating sweets), avoid sugary foods and drinks, and maintain a balanced diet. It’s also vital to have regular dental checkups and cleanings twice a year to ensure your teeth are healthy.
Dentist Services for Patients in Las Vegas
Radiant Smiles offers thorough dental examinations, fluoride treatment for children and adults, and numerous other services to help patients in Las Vegas, NV, maintain excellent dental health. Visit one of our dental offices for a professional dental examination and learn more about fluoride treatment and how it may benefit you. We look forward to having you and your family as our patients.
