Fluoride Treatments in Tulsa, OK

Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen your enamel and keep dental cavities at bay. Fluoride treatment is one of the services offered by many dental clinics. The treatment can benefit both adults and children.

What is Fluoride Treatment?

Your enamel is the strongest part of your teeth and is composed of minerals like phosphate and calcium. Over time, the minerals from the enamel may wash away, thereby making your teeth weak and exposing them to decay. The in-office fluoride treatment helps the reabsorption of the minerals so that your teeth remain strong and free from cavities.

What are the Benefits of Fluoride Treatment?

• Fluoride treatment helps your body use minerals like phosphate and calcium better. After this treatment, the restoration work of weak teeth starts.
• Fluoride joins your tooth structure when the teeth are developing to strengthen their enamel. Thus, your teeth become less exposed to cavities, bacteria, and other substances.
• Many studies have laid down that fluoride treatment reverses the development of cavities by harming bacteria that lead to cavities.

How is Fluoride Applied on the Teeth?

We use fluoride in the form of a toothpaste, gel, or even varnish and apply it to your teeth. A generous amount of fluoride is smeared on the surface of your teeth using a small brush. At first, your teeth may feel a little sticky, but then they harden after coming in contact with the saliva. 

Afterward, we will wash your mouth and give you a few instructions to care for your teeth. The procedure doesn’t hurt and suits everyone, including children. Young children and teens would benefit from this treatment as they are at a higher risk of developing cavities.

What is Included in the Aftercare?

• We do not recommend flossing, brushing, or even rinsing your mouth for 6-8 hours after the application of fluoride. It is because such activities may wipe out the fluoride off your teeth before absorbing it.
• Avoid eating too hard or too cold foods as your teeth may be a little sensitive after fluoride application.
• Do not drink alcohol or consume any product that contains alcohol.
• You may resume brushing and flossing 8 hours after the application of fluoride.
• Do not opt for any additional fluoride treatments three days after your first sitting or until we allow it. It is because excessive application of fluoride may lead to fluorosis, a condition affecting the appearance of your teeth. 

Please reach out to our dental practice in Tulsa, OK, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Gerety. Please call us at (918) 493-3031 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.