Flouride Application

Topical Fluoride Application: Topical fluoride application involves the direct application of fluoride to the surface of the teeth. This can be done in a dental office or at home. Some common methods of topical fluoride application include:

Professional fluoride treatment: This is done in a dental office and involves the use of a high concentration fluoride gel or foam. The fluoride is applied to the teeth for a few minutes and then rinsed off.

Prescription fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash: These contain higher concentrations of fluoride than over-the-counter products and are used on a daily basis.

Over-the-counter fluoride products: These include fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, and gels that can be purchased without a prescription. They contain lower concentrations of fluoride than professional products.

Fluoride Gel Application:

• The dentist or dental hygienist will clean the teeth to remove any debris and plaque.
• The teeth are dried with air to ensure that the fluoride gel sticks to the teeth.
• A tray is then filled with fluoride gel, and the patient is instructed to bite down on the tray, which fits comfortably over the teeth.
• The tray is kept in the mouth for a specific period, typically 1 to 4 minutes, depending on the concentration of the fluoride gel.
• The patient is instructed to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after the treatment.

Fluoride Varnish Application:

• The dentist or dental hygienist will clean the teeth to remove any debris and plaque.
• The teeth are dried with air to ensure that the fluoride varnish sticks to the teeth.
• The fluoride varnish is then painted onto the teeth using a brush.
• The patient is instructed to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after the treatment.

Fluoride Foam Application:

• The dentist or dental hygienist will clean the teeth to remove any debris and plaque.
• A tray is then filled with fluoride foam, and the patient is instructed to bite down on the tray, which fits comfortably over the teeth.
• The tray is kept in the mouth for a specific period, typically 1 to 4 minutes, depending on the concentration of the fluoride foam.
• The patient is instructed to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after the treatment.

Fluoride Mouth Rinse:

• The patient is instructed to fill the measuring cup that comes with the fluoride rinse with the recommended amount of fluoride rinse.
• The patient is then instructed to swish the fluoride rinse around in their mouth for 1 minute.
• The patient is then instructed to spit the fluoride rinse out, and they should not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes after the rinse.

Prevents Tooth Decay: Fluoride application strengthens the enamel on the teeth, making them more resistant to the acids that cause tooth decay. By preventing tooth decay, fluoride application can help to preserve the natural teeth and prevent the need for costly dental procedures such as fillings and extractions.

Reduces the Risk of Cavities: Fluoride application can significantly reduce the risk of cavities, particularly in children who have developing teeth. This can help to ensure that children have a healthy set of teeth that will last into adulthood.

Safe and Effective: Fluoride application is a safe and effective way to promote dental health. It is widely used and recommended by dentists and public health organizations, and the benefits have been demonstrated in numerous scientific studies.

Cost-Effective: Fluoride application is a cost-effective way to prevent tooth decay and promote dental health. It is less expensive than many other dental procedures, and it can save money in the long run by preventing the need for more extensive dental work.

Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes: To allow the fluoride to fully absorb into the teeth, patients should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes after the treatment.

No brushing or flossing for at least 4 hours: To allow the fluoride to continue working on the teeth, patients should avoid brushing or flossing for at least 4 hours after the treatment.

No alcohol-based mouthwash: Patients should avoid using any alcohol-based mouthwash for at least 24 hours after the treatment, as this can interfere with the effectiveness of the fluoride.

No hard or sticky foods: Patients should avoid eating hard or sticky foods for at least 24 hours after the treatment, as this can dislodge the fluoride and reduce its effectiveness.

Avoid excessive heat or cold: Patients should avoid consuming foods or drinks that are excessively hot or cold for at least 24 hours after the treatment, as this can cause tooth sensitivity.

Resume regular dental hygiene routine: Patients should resume their regular dental hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing, after the waiting period as recommended by their dentist.

Children and teenagers: Fluoride is important for developing teeth, as it helps strengthen the enamel and prevent cavities. Children and teenagers are at a higher risk for tooth decay because they may not have developed good dental hygiene habits yet or may consume sugary foods and drinks more often.

People with dry mouth: Saliva helps neutralize acid in the mouth and wash away food particles, so people with dry mouth (a condition in which the mouth does not produce enough saliva) may be at a higher risk for tooth decay. Fluoride can help protect the teeth in these cases.

People with gum recession or periodontal disease: Gum recession can expose the root surfaces of the teeth, which are more susceptible to decay. Periodontal disease can also cause tooth sensitivity and weaken the teeth. Fluoride application can help protect and strengthen these vulnerable areas.

People with braces or orthodontic appliances: Braces or orthodontic appliances can make it more difficult to clean the teeth properly, and therefore increase the risk of tooth decay. Fluoride application can help protect the teeth while the appliances are in place.

Older adults: Older adults may be more prone to tooth decay and gum disease due to age-related changes in their oral health. Fluoride application can help protect their teeth and prevent decay.

We at Kigo Dental are committed to providing you with the best dental care available, and we do so with a smile.

Our entire staff, from receptionists to dental hygienists and assistants, is committed to providing you with the best quality dental care possible.

From the time you walk through the door and every time you revisit, you will experience this firsthand.

Kigo Dental has a team of experienced and skilled Orthodontists and other specialized dentists who specialize in providing high-quality dental care and treatments, utilizing the latest technologies and techniques to ensure the best patient outcomes.