A professional fluoride treatment at a dental office is one of the essential procedures of preventive dentistry. In this article, we talk about the benefits of the procedure and what to avoid after fluoride treatment.
What to Avoid After Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment does not require recovery or any significant adjustment to your daily activities. However, for fluoride to have a proper effect, it needs some time to absorb into the enamel of your teeth. For this reason, dentists recommend abstaining from eating or drinking for 30 to 60 minutes after the treatment.
When 30 to 60 minutes after the treatment is passed, you can have a meal. However, your teeth might be slightly sensitive due to the procedure, so it is recommended to avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks, as well as acidic products.
Why Fluoride Treatments Are Necessary
Fluoride is a well-researched and safe chemical ingredient that has been used in dentistry for decades. Three primary sources of fluoride are:
- Over-the-counter dental products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash
- Professional fluoride treatments at a dental office
- Fluoride we receive with food and drink
Fluoride can be highly beneficial to our oral health. It works by remineralizing and strengthening the enamel of the teeth. Teeth with strong and healthy enamel are more resistant to bacteria—the main cause of cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Professional fluoride treatments can even be effective at stopping or reversing tooth decay in early stages. Fluoride also slows down bacterial growth in the mouth.
Dentists recommend to undergo professional fluoride treatments in combination with dental cleanings every 6 months. Patients who are prone to cavities or naturally have weaker and more porous enamel can benefit from undergoing both these procedures more often.
What Happens During a Professional Fluoride Treatment
A professional fluoride treatment is most effective after a dental cleaning. During the cleaning, your dentist removes plaque and tartar that collect on your teeth over time. As a result, fluoride solutions will be able to coat the surface of the teeth evenly and better penetrate the enamel.
Professional fluoride solutions used at a dental office are more concentrated than over-the-counter solutions. Also, your dentist uses the solution in a controlled environment, which makes the procedure effective and safe.
During a professional fluoride treatment at a dental office, your doctor will use a potent fluoride solution and apply it to your teeth via one of the available methods:
- A tray coated in fluoride solution is put on the teeth
- A gel or varnish is applied on the teeth using a swab or other dental instruments
Typically, a fluoride treatment at a dental office takes 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the type of the procedure.
Does Fluoride Have Side Effects?
If the recommended dosage is followed, fluoride typically does not have side effects. If you use fluoride toothpaste on a daily basis, undergo professional fluoride treatments every 6 months, and have a balanced diet, you will most likely never have to worry about overconsumption of fluoride. Typically, the body absorbs the necessary amount of fluoride, and any extra unabsorbed fluoride is disposed of in urine.
However, if you notice spots on your teeth that range in color from light to dark brown, it might be a sign of fluoride side effects called fluoride-induced tooth discoloration. We recommend consulting your dentist or your general health provider to determine if the tooth discoloration you experience is indeed caused by fluoride overdose and to recommend appropriate dietary and dental care routine adjustments.
To prevent negative side effects of fluoride, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste when brushing your teeth. Also, avoid swallowing your fluoride toothpaste when brushing your teeth. If your child uses fluoride toothpaste, teach them to spit it out after brushing.
Nowadays, fluoride supplements are available on the market. However, since fluoride can be toxic in large doses, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before taking such supplements. You should first consult with your doctor to determine if you will benefit from fluoride supplements or if you already receive enough of it from the foods and drinks you consume on a daily basis.
Make an Appointment Today
Dentistry Riverside offers a variety of preventive procedures, including professional cleanings and fluoride treatments. Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist today. In our dental office, we will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health and offer you an effective preventive dentistry treatment plan.
We look forward to your visit.