Fluoride VarnishSouth Bend, IN
While brushing and flossing can help prevent tooth decay, people can still develop cavities. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to dental pain and loose teeth. In some cases, some individuals may even experience tooth loss. Fortunately, preventive treatment can help. Fluoride varnish reduces the risk of cavities by strengthening tooth enamel.
Fluoride varnish is available at Michiana Family Dental in South Bend and the surrounding area. Our team helps individuals of all ages defend against tooth decay. We offer a range of services designed to reduce your risk of cavities. Call us at (574) 349-2073 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
Benefits of Professional Fluoride Varnish
Fluoride plays an important role in cavity prevention. Additionally, brushing and flossing are not always enough. Some individuals may have a genetic tendency toward weak enamel. These patients are at high risk for cavities, even with good dental hygiene. Fluoride helps to protect their teeth against decay.
Tooth decay is linked to certain types of mouth bacteria. These bacteria feed off sugar and carbohydrates. As they break down sugars, they produce an acid that damages tooth enamel. Damaged enamel often leads to cavities, infections, and other dental troubles.
Fluoride strengthens enamel and slows bacterial growth. It may even help to slow or reverse existing decay. Dentists can also provide fluoride-based treatments. During routine checkups and cleanings, the dentist may apply a fluoride gel. This professional-grade treatment can help reduce a person’s risk of cavities.
“Fluoride plays an important role in cavity prevention.”
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The Treatment Process
During treatment, the dentist applies fluoride varnish directly to the teeth. Using a small brush, the dentist “paints” the sticky substance onto each tooth. This process takes just a few minutes.
Once applied, the fluoride hardens as it comes into contact with saliva. The patient will swallow very little fluoride during the treatment process. They will not be able to lick or wipe the varnish away. The rapid set time makes fluoride varnish a lasting solution.
“The rapid set time makes fluoride varnish a lasting solution.”
Types of Fluoride Varnish
Several fluoride varnish products are currently on the market. Each product has a different formulation of minerals and serves a specific purpose. A dental provider can determine which type of varnish is suitable for each patient. The dentist will consider the patient’s age, dental history, and lifestyle. They will also determine which varnish works with any existing orthodontic treatments or other dental appliances.
“The dentist will consider the patient’s age, dental history, and lifestyle.”
The Research on Fluoride Varnish
Researchers have studied the safety and efficacy of fluoride for decades. Individuals who receive fluoride treatments have a lower risk of cavities. Research also supports the use of fluoride in municipal water supplies. Fluoride is essential to help repair damage from acids on the teeth.
It is possible to use too much fluoride. But this problem generally occurs due to improper use of at-home products. A trained dentist uses only appropriate measures of professional-grade treatments. The dental team makes sure that a safe dose is administered to each patient.
Fluoride has few side effects. It may cause the teeth to become temporarily dull or yellowish. However, these side effects do not last long. The patient’s teeth should regain their normal appearance within 24 hours.
“Individuals who receive fluoride treatments have a lower risk of cavities.”
After a Fluoride Varnish Treatment
A patient who undergoes fluoride varnish treatment might be instructed to avoid food or drinks for 30 minutes after the procedure. After half an hour, patients can usually resume their normal diet. The dental team may suggest waiting a full day before eating hot, sticky, or crunchy foods. The provider might also recommend waiting four to 12 hours before brushing the teeth. Patients who follow these instructions enjoy improved treatment results.
“A patient who undergoes fluoride varnish treatment might be instructed to avoid food or drinks for 30 minutes after the procedure.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are some benefits of professional fluoride varnish?
Q. What happens during a fluoride varnish treatment?
Q. How can I determine what kind of fluoride product is right for me?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is fluoride?
A. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to fight tooth decay. It supports healthy tooth enamel and lowers the risk of cavities and tooth decay. Individuals can use at-home fluoride products, including toothpaste and mouthwash. Dentists can also perform professional fluoride treatments in the office.
Q. Is fluoride safe?
A. Fluoride has been used in dentistry for more than 60 years. Studies have shown that fluoride is safe and effective for most patients. If you have concerns about fluoride treatments, your general dentist can provide more information.
Q. How often should I get fluoride varnish?
A. Treatment plans can vary from patient to patient and depend on their oral health. According to Healthline, patients should get a professional fluoride treatment every 3, 6, or 12 months
. The dentist will often perform fluoride treatments during each checkup and cleaning. Individuals who are prone to cavities might need treatments every few months.
In contrast, those who have no risk factors for tooth decay might not need fluoride varnish. Your dentist can provide a personalized recommendation based on your dental history.
Q. What are some dental benefits of fluoride varnish?
A. Fluoride supports and protects your tooth enamel. Professional treatments are more powerful than over-the-counter fluoride toothpaste or mouthwashes. The varnish hardens quickly, even in the presence of saliva. The quick-drying time helps ensure the product is not washed away.
Q. What other fluoride products should I consider?
A. People of all ages can benefit from using fluoride-based toothpaste during their dental visits. These products are generally safe when used as directed. Your dentist can also recommend other fluoride products to use at home.
Q. Is fluoride varnish covered by insurance?
A. Dental insurance often covers fluoride varnish, as it is considered a preventive treatment. However, coverage can vary from policy to policy. Check with your provider and call our office if you have any questions about the cost of the treatment and our payment options.
Definitions
- Fluoride
- Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay.
- Fluoride Varnish
- Fluoride varnish is a type of fluoride therapy in which a dental professional applies a highly concentrated form of fluoride to the teeth.
Fluoride varnish offers many benefits for patients of all ages. The treatment protects against painful tooth problems like cavities. Over time, fluoride can also reduce your risk for severe tooth decay. Fluoride varnishes take only a few minutes to apply. But they can save you a lot of time and trouble down the road. If you would like to reduce your risk of cavities, let Michiana Family Dental in South Bend help. Call us at (574) 349-2073 to learn more about our services.
Contact Us
Michiana Family Dental is located at 3575 Portage Ave Suite A South Bend, IN 46628.
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