Preventive

Fluoride Treatment

Professional fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent decay. We recommend fluoride applications twice a year for children and for adults at higher risk of cavities.

A close-up of a woman receiving dental veneers, showcasing detail and precision.

What Is Fluoride Treatment?

Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.

How Fluoride Works

Fluoride protects your teeth in two important ways:

Topical fluoride strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay. We gain topical fluoride by using fluoride containing dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels. We generally recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental checkups.

Systemic fluoride strengthens the teeth that have erupted as well as those that are developing under the gums. We gain systemic fluoride from most foods and our community water supplies. It is also available as a supplement in drop or gel form and can be prescribed by your dentist or physician. Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years. It is very important to monitor the amounts of fluoride a child ingests. If too much fluoride is consumed while the teeth are developing, a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) may result.

Who Benefits from Professional Fluoride Treatment?

Although most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. We may recommend the use of home and professional fluoride treatments for the following reasons:

Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth
Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
Fair to poor oral hygiene habits
Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
Inadequate exposure to fluorides
Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments or medications
Recent history of dental decay

Complete Cavity Prevention

Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay. It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.

How it works

Assessment

We evaluate your cavity risk and determine if professional fluoride treatment is right for you or your child.

Application

We apply a concentrated fluoride gel, foam, or varnish to your teeth. The process is quick and completely painless.

Absorption

The fluoride seeps into your tooth enamel over the next few minutes, strengthening the outer surface and making teeth more decay-resistant.

Ongoing Care

We recommend professional fluoride treatments twice a year for children and at-risk adults, combined with daily brushing and flossing.

Common questions

Is fluoride treatment safe for children?+

Yes, professional fluoride treatments are very safe when applied by a dental professional. We carefully monitor the amount used. For children taking fluoride supplements at home, it is important to follow dosing instructions to avoid fluorosis, which can cause white spots on developing teeth.

How often should my child receive fluoride treatments?+

We generally recommend professional fluoride applications twice a year during regular dental checkups for children. Adults at higher risk of decay may also benefit from these treatments.

Will fluoride treatment prevent all cavities?+

Fluoride is highly effective but works best as part of a complete prevention plan. You still need to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit us for regular checkups.

Get in touch — Verona, NJ

Ready when you are — let's get you smiling.

New patients are always welcome. Give us a call, and we'll find a time that fits — gentle care, honest answers, no pressure.

No-pressure, unhurried first visit
We file your insurance for you