Fluoride Treatment in West Brattleboro, VT

The importance of fluoride to dental health has been proved by the American Dental Association (ADA), the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Medical Association (AMA), and many other professional organizations. Communities that add fluoride to their water supply have fewer cavities and problems with tooth decay. A natural mineral found in certain foods and the earth's crust, fluoride helps to strengthen bones and dental enamel. Professional fluoride treatments at Dental Health in Brattleboro, VT can help children with developing teeth and teens and adults with weakened teeth to restore their oral health. Learn more about professional fluoride treatments for your family during a dental exam with our board-certified Dental Health team.

Fluoride treatments can be given to patients of all ages, though it is most commonly given to younger patients who have developing teeth or who have not developed a good oral care routine at home. Our Dental Health team also recommends fluoride treatments for adult patients whose drinking water is not fluoridated or who are prone to cavities. Dental Health offers different fluoride formulas if you have specific needs, such as neutral sodium fluoride if you have dry mouth and acidulated phosphate fluoride if you have dental restorations (crowns, bridges, dentures). There are also different flavors to make these treatments easier for younger patients.

Fluoride treatments are typically performed every six months after your professional dental cleaning and exam. After your flavor is selected, the dental hygienist will prepare the treatment as either a gel, foam, or paint-on varnish. It will be left on for 1 – 4 minutes to allow the fluoride time to penetrate the enamel before it can be spit out. The hygienist will use suction to help clear your mouth after the treatment, but you will not be able to rinse your mouth, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes after.

Nausea can occur if you accidentally swallow any fluoride, but this should diminish within 24 hours following treatment. In some cases, the Dental Health team may prescribe fluoride supplements for you or your child to take at home. Since fluoride can be toxic in high amounts, adults should be careful and keep supplements out of reach of children. While these treatments help to strengthen the enamel, you should continue or establish a good home oral care routine, including brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing. You should also attend your schedule dental exams and cleanings at Dental Health, so our team can re-assess your need for fluoride treatments.

Most dental insurance companies cover dental fluoride treatments for younger patients, while adults may not always be covered. Our staff works to help you get the most coverage from your insurance before determining your out-of-pocket costs. For patients without insurance, Dental Health accepts different payment methods and can help you find medical financing if needed.

Make sure you and your family have strong, healthy teeth with professional fluoride treatments at Dental Health. Our team recommends fluoride treatments for younger patients with developing teeth and adults who want to prevent future problems. Contact our office in Brattleboro, VT to schedule a dental exam and cleaning with a fluoride treatment.