Patient Services > Preventive Dentistry >> Fluoride Treatments


Fluoride is a mineral that is found in many foods and water. Every day, fluoride is lost from a tooth's enamel layer when acids produced from bacteria and sugars in the mouth come in contact with enamel.

Fluoride and other minerals are redeposited to the enamel from consumed foods and water. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by causing teeth to be resistant to the acids caused by sugars and bacteria. Too much fluoride loss and not enough redeposit can lead to tooth decay.

The doctor can apply a high amount of fluoride to the teeth in the form of a gel, foam or varnish. Varnishes can be painted on the teeth. Foams are placed in a mouth guard, and then it is applied to the teeth for a few minutes. Finally, gels can be painted on or applied to the teeth through the use of a mouth guard. Fluoride supplements are also available in other forms, such as liquids and tablets, and they must be prescribed by the doctor.

Children and adults can benefit from fluoride. Research shows that topical fluoride that comes from toothpastes, mouth rinses and fluoride treatments are crucial in fighting tooth decay and strengthening teeth.

Also, certain conditions may cause increased risk of tooth decay. Patients with such conditions could benefit from fluoride treatment. These conditions include:

• Frequent cavities: If you have at least one cavity every year or two, you likely need more fluoride.
• Dry mouth: Dry mouth caused by disease, allergy medications, antihistamines or anti-anxiety drugs make tooth decay more likely. The lack of adequate saliva does not allow for food particles to be rinsed away and acids to be neutralized.
• Gum disease: Gum disease can expose tooth roots to bacteria which increases the chance of tooth decay.
• Crowns / bridges / braces: They can increase risk for decay at the location where the crown meets the tooth structure or near the brackets of orthodontic appliances.