WHY ADULTS NEED FLUORIDE TREATMENTS
The American Dental Association recommends the use of fluoride varnish for children and adults at moderate or high risk for dental decay.
How Does Fluoride Work?
Fluoride safely inhibits or even reverses the progression of dental decay.
How is Fluoride Varnish Different from Fluoride Toothpaste or Rinse?
Fluoride varnish, which has higher concentrations of fluoride than toothpastes or rinses, adheres onto your teeth which helps prolong the contact time between fluoride and your teeth.
Once adhered to your teeth, the fluoride varnish 1) incorporates into the outer layer of your tooth (the enamel) making it stronger and 2) interacts with your saliva forming a calcium fluoride deposit on your teeth which releases fluoride when the pH of plaque drops
Who Should Have a Fluoride Treatment?
Fluoride varnishes are recommended for patients with a high or moderate risk of dental decay.
Risk indicators are 1) history of tooth decay 2) extensive dental work (fillings, crowns, bridges) 3) inadequate previous or current exposure to fluoride 4) any physical or mental impairment that compromises the maintenance of optimal oral health 5) high and frequent sugar consumption 6) lower salivary flow, associated with certain medical conditions and therapies 7) gum recession leading to root exposure (decay prone area of the tooth), especially in elderly populations
How Often Do You Need a Fluoride Treatment?
Studies have shown that fluoride varnish has a residual effect for 26 weeks. Therefore, we recommend having a fluoride treatment coinciding with your 6 month continuing care hygiene visit. Using a high fluoride toothpaste such as Clinpro 5000 between in-office fluoride treatments is highly recommended.
