Fluoride Treatment

Warm, Caring, and Child-Friendly - Dentists For Kids in Cary, NC

Fluoride Treatment for Kids in Cary

Fluoride is a natural mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and health of teeth, especially for children. However, Preston Corners Pediatric Dentistry focuses on providing preventive dental care that helps safeguard your child’s oral health for years to come. Plus, one of the most effective treatments we offer to protect young teeth is fluoride treatment. Dr. Richard F. Brooks and Dr. Ritu Chandak help children in Cary maintain strong, healthy smiles through gentle and effective fluoride treatments and education on oral hygiene practices. Here’s everything you need to know about fluoride treatments for kids in Cary and how they contribute to your child’s oral health.

What is Fluoride Treatment?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral in water, soil, and certain foods. Plus, it is well-known for strengthening tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth, making it more resistant to decay. Additionally, fluoride treatments in the dental office provide a concentrated dose of fluoride to prevent cavities and reverse early signs of tooth decay.

However, at Preston Corners Pediatric Dentistry, fluoride treatments for kids in Cary are quick and painless. Dr. Brooks and Dr. Chandak carefully apply a fluoride varnish or gel to the surface of your child’s teeth during routine dental cleanings. Moreover, this protective treatment takes only a few minutes and can significantly impact your child’s dental health.

Why Fluoride Treatment is Important for Kids

Children are more prone to cavities due to various factors, including developing oral hygiene habits, a preference for sugary snacks, and softer tooth enamel that is still maturing. Plus, fluoride treatments help combat these risk factors by making teeth more resilient to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars in the mouth.

Here are some key benefits of fluoride treatment for kids:

Strengthening Tooth Enamel: First, fluoride strengthens the enamel, making it harder for acids from food and bacteria to penetrate and cause decay.
Preventing Cavities: Next, fluoride has been proven to reduce the risk of cavities in both baby and permanent teeth by up to 50%, significantly lowering the chances of tooth decay.
Reversing Early Decay: Additionally, fluoride can help remineralize teeth that have started to lose minerals due to early-stage decay. This treatment can reverse the damage before it progresses into an entire cavity.
Building Long-Term Oral Health: Finally, starting fluoride treatments early in a child’s life helps lay a foundation for strong, healthy teeth in the future. Plus, consistent fluoride applications can reduce the need for extensive dental work as your child grows.

Who Should Get Fluoride Treatments?

While fluoride is essential for all patients, it especially benefits children. Both Dr. Brooks and Dr. Chandak recommend fluoride treatments for children starting early. The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests fluoride treatments for children as soon as their teeth begin to appear, typically around six months of age, and continues throughout childhood and adolescence.

Children who are more susceptible to cavities, such as those who consume a high-sugar diet or have a history of frequent cavities, may benefit from fluoride treatments every six months. Dr. Brooks and Dr. Chandak will assess your child’s individual needs and recommend a fluoride treatment plan that fits their oral health.

What to Expect During Fluoride Treatment For Kids in Cary

Preston Corners Pediatric Dentistry’s fluoride treatment process is simple and noninvasive. During your child’s routine dental cleaning, fluoride varnish or gel is applied to the teeth using a small brush or tray. The fluoride is sticky at first, allowing it to adhere to the teeth and hardens within minutes.

Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

Quick Application: The fluoride application takes just a few minutes and doesn’t cause any discomfort.
No Waiting: Your child can eat and drink after the fluoride varnish hardens, usually within one to two minutes. However, we recommend avoiding hard or crunchy foods for at least 30 minutes to ensure the fluoride stays on the teeth as long as possible.

Preventive Dental Care at Preston Corners Pediatric Dentistry

Fluoride treatments are a vital part of our preventive approach to dental care at Preston Corners Pediatric Dentistry in Cary. Along with regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and education on proper brushing and flossing techniques, fluoride helps ensure your child has the tools they need for a healthy smile. Dr. Brooks and Dr. Chandak are passionate about creating a welcoming, fun environment for kids, making each visit to our Cary office a positive experience.