Fluoride Treatments for Children
Nature's cavity fighter—strengthening teeth from the inside out.
Fluoride is a natural mineral that makes teeth stronger and more resistant to decay. Professional fluoride treatments give your child's teeth an extra boost of protection—helping prevent cavities and even reversing early signs of tooth decay.
Think of fluoride as a vitamin for teeth—it strengthens enamel and helps repair weak spots before they become cavities.
How Fluoride Protects Teeth
Strengthens Enamel
Fluoride makes tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugary foods. Stronger enamel means fewer cavities.
Reverses Early Decay
Fluoride helps remineralize teeth, which means it can actually reverse early stages of tooth decay (white spots or soft spots) before they turn into cavities.
Prevents Future Cavities
Regular fluoride treatments reduce the risk of cavities by 30-40%. Combined with good brushing habits, fluoride is a powerful preventive tool.
Professional vs. At-Home Fluoride
While fluoride toothpaste at home is important, professional fluoride treatments offer stronger, more targeted protection:
Professional Fluoride
- Higher concentration (22,600 ppm)
- Applied directly to teeth
- Targets areas of concern
- Applied every 6 months
At-Home Fluoride
- Lower concentration (1,000-1,500 ppm)
- Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste
- Provides baseline protection
- Used twice daily
Best results come from combining both! Professional treatments + daily fluoride toothpaste = maximum protection.
Quick Facts
- Quick: Takes 2-3 minutes
- Painless: Just painted on teeth
- Safe: ADA & AAP endorsed
- Effective: Reduces cavities 30-40%
- Covered: By most insurance plans
- Frequency: Every 6 months
What to Expect During Treatment
Teeth are Cleaned
Your child's teeth are gently cleaned and dried to prepare for the fluoride application.
Fluoride is Applied
We paint a fluoride varnish onto the teeth using a small brush. It's quick and completely painless—many kids don't even notice!
It Dries Quickly
The fluoride varnish dries in seconds when it contacts saliva, forming a protective coating on the teeth.
Done! Simple Aftercare
Your child can eat and drink right away, though we recommend avoiding hard or sticky foods for a few hours. The fluoride continues working for hours after application.
Fluoride Safety: What Parents Should Know
Is Fluoride Safe?
Yes! Fluoride has been used in dentistry for over 75 years and is one of the most studied preventive treatments. When used appropriately, fluoride is completely safe and highly effective.
Professional fluoride treatments are endorsed by the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
For infants & toddlers?
Yes! Fluoride treatments are safe for children of all ages, including babies with their first teeth. We carefully apply the right amount based on your child's age and risk factors.
How often is safe?
Professional fluoride treatments every 6 months are safe and recommended. For children at high risk for cavities, more frequent applications may be beneficial.
Toothpaste at home?
Use fluoride toothpaste daily! For children under 3, use a rice-grain sized amount. For ages 3-6, use a pea-sized amount. Teach children not to swallow toothpaste.
Give Your Child's Teeth Extra Protection
Fluoride treatments are included in every routine checkup. Schedule your child's visit today!