Fluoride Treatment – Naperville, IL
Give Your Child the Protection of Fluoride
Your child’s teeth are important for more than just a beautiful smile. They are also necessary for them to learn how to chew and speak correctly. The biggest threat to the health of their teeth is tooth decay. Although it is preventable, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 25% to 50% of children and adolescents currently have 1 or more untreated cavities. While brushing and flossing help keep them at bay, you can give your child added protection with a fluoride treatment. Fluoride for kids in Naperville is proven to significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay to ensure your child’s smile stays healthy. At Tic-Tac-Tooth, we offer it as part of your child’s preventive care.
How Does Fluoride Work?
Fluoride is often referred to as “nature’s cavity fighter.” The naturally occurring substance helps replenish areas of weakened enamel to make the teeth more resistant to harmful acids and bacteria.
Teeth are composed of three layers. The hard outer layer you see is the enamel, which covers the dentin. The dentin contains tiny tubes connecting to the nerve center of your tooth called the pulp. Your child’s teeth are continuously exposed to sugars and bacteria that slowly eat away at the enamel. Over time, a small hole can form, called a cavity. If it is not treated quickly, it can extend to the dentin and pulp.
Fluoride helps protect their teeth from erosion caused by sugars and acids to prevent the development of decay. It contains phosphate and calcium, which remineralizes the enamel to also repair any erosion that may have already occurred. This can help to reverse the early stages of decay to prevent it from forming into a cavity.
What Can My Child Expect?
Your child’s pediatric dentist in Naperville often recommends a fluoride treatment at each semi-annual appointment. After their teeth are cleaned, a fluoride varnish is painted on their teeth. It quickly dries, but it is best if they do not eat or drink anything for at least 20 minutes after the treatment. The fast and painless varnish can prevent as much as 33% of cavities in the primary teeth when used routinely.
Promote a Cavity-Free Smile
While fluoride treatments are beneficial to reduce your child’s risk of decay, there are several other things you can do to help ward off cavities, including:
- Encourage them to brush their teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste.
- Teach your child to floss in between each tooth and around the gum line daily.
- Limit their consumption of sugary foods and drinks.
- Take them to their children’s dentist in Naperville twice a year.
- Choose fluorinated tap water over fruit juices, sports drinks, and sodas.
- Talk with their dentist about the benefits of dental sealants.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
You can ensure your child’s smile stays cavity-free with the right care at home and from their dentist. Contact our office today to learn more about the benefits of fluoride or to schedule a preventive appointment.