Fluoride is effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay and in preventing plaque from building up and hardening on the tooth’s surface. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that has been shown to help strengthen teeth in children and also prevent decay in people of all ages. The American Dental Association has publicly endorsed the use of fluoride for the prevention of dental caries, as has the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association, and you can read the ADA’s overview of fluoride for more.
At Smiles of Fort Myers, professional fluoride treatments are a quick addition to your regular checkups and cleanings, and our team will recommend how often you need one based on your oral health. Topical fluoride, in particular, is helpful for promoting oral health.
Who May Benefit From Fluoride Treatments
You may need fluoride treatments if your drinking water is not fluoridated or if you are experiencing certain symptoms.
Non-Fluoridated Water
Bottled water may not contain fluoride.
Receding Gums
Exposed areas of the tooth can be more prone to decay.
Orthodontic Braces
Fluoride can provide extra support against decay.
Dry-Mouth Medications
Medications that cause dry mouth can raise decay risk.
What Happens During a Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatments are painless and take only a few minutes, and they can be given at your twice-yearly checkups and cleanings.
Gel, Foam, or Varnish
Your dentist places fluoride in a tray and sets it over your teeth.
A Few Minutes
The treatment takes only a few minutes to complete.
Let It Absorb
You may be asked not to rinse, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes.
Depending on your oral health or your dentist’s recommendation, you may need a fluoride treatment every three, six, or 12 months, which works out to between one and four times per year.
Not sure if you are getting enough fluoride? Ask our team at your next visit.
Are You Already Drinking Fluoride?
You might be drinking fluoride every day without knowing it. Many communities add fluoride to the public water supply in an effort to promote better dental health, and you can find out if there is fluoride in your tap water by contacting your local water utility. If your primary source of drinking water is bottled, you may not be getting fluoride, and you can contact your bottled water company or manufacturer to find out. If not, speak with your dentist about professional fluoride treatments, which pair well with your regular exams and cleanings, sealants, and other preventive care.
Fluoride Treatment Cost and Financing in Fort Myers
The cost of fluoride treatment depends on your plan and how often you need it, so our team can go over your options at your visit. We accept most insurance plans, though coverage varies from plan to plan, and we offer 0% APR financing along with our in-house Smile Program membership plan for patients without insurance. You can find more details on our financial information page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fluoride in Fort Myers
Schedule Your Visit at Smiles of Fort Myers
If you are ready to talk through your options with our dentists, we would be glad to walk you through how fluoride fits into your preventive care. Contact our office to schedule your visit.
We speak English and Spanish. Se habla español.
