Strengthening Smiles with Fluoride Treatments for Kids in Watauga, TX
Go the extra mile to protect your child’s teeth with fluoride treatments during their next cleaning. At Aviator Pediatric Dentistry, we provide fluoride during regular cleanings to strengthen teeth for beautiful, healthy smiles.
What is a Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel to help them fight off cavity-causing bacteria. A treatment is performed in a matter of minutes and is usually combined with your child’s routine cleaning exam. Topical fluoride is gently applied across the teeth and hardens quickly for fast, painless protection.
Sugary and acidic drinks break down the minerals in your child’s teeth. With fluoride, the teeth are given a boost to build themselves back to health. The process is called remineralization and can even reverse early signs of tooth decay when combined with daily oral hygiene habits.
Should My Child Get a Fluoride Treatment?
From your child’s first tooth until their late adolescence, fluoride is a powerful cavity-fighting treatment. Children’s teeth are more permeable than permanent, adult teeth. Bacteria and acids can quickly break down their enamel and cause decay as a result. We recommend children receive fluoride treatments twice a year to prevent early tooth decay.
Fluoride is a mineral found in nature and in most community tap water sources. It’s a safe and proven way to prevent tooth decay when children’s teeth are most at-risk. Even though your child may get fluoride benefits from tap water, a dental fluoride treatment is still recommended. The higher concentration of the mineral and care of a professional ensures your child’s teeth are as strong as they can be.
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
For minor cavities, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) can be used as a noninvasive, affordable, and convenient alternative to dental fillings. SDF consists of a unique combination of silver, fluoride, ammonia, and water that’s used to stop the progress of tooth decay and fight bacteria. The liquid is applied directly to the decayed area to kill bacteria and stop it from progressing. Further, it allows children to receive treatment for tooth decay without the need of drilling, anesthesia, or sedation. This makes SDF a great choice to relieve cavities for patients with dental anxiety or special needs. Tooth decay that’s more extensive may require restorative treatment instead of SDF to effectively treat. During your child’s examination, Dr. J will assess the extent of tooth decay and recommend the best path forward to offer the best care for your child’s growing smile.
Fluoride is a mineral found in nature and in most community tap water sources. It’s a safe and proven way to prevent tooth decay when children’s teeth are most at-risk. Even though your child may get fluoride benefits from tap water, a dental fluoride treatment is still recommended. The higher concentration of the mineral and care of a professional ensures your child’s teeth are as strong as they can be.
The In-Office Fluoride Treatment Process
Fluoride treatments are quick and painless. We use silver diamine fluoride as our preferred choice. It helps teeth remineralize and fights off tooth decay-causing bacteria. After a cleaning, excess moisture is removed from the teeth. A small brush lightly applies the fluoride solution to the outer surface and it’s cured to penetrate into the teeth.
Some insurance plans will fully cover fluoride treatments as preventative dental care. We’ll be glad to review your insurance plan with you to get the most of your benefits for your child’s oral health. Reach out to us for help on reviewing your insurance plan, or visit our finances & insurance page for more information.
Fluoride Treatments for Kids
Minutes of fluoride treatment brings months of benefits for your child’s teeth. For growing, healthy smiles, schedule your young one’s next dental appointment with us at Aviator Pediatric Dentistry. Contact us to set up your next visit today.