Fluoride Treatment

The enamel covering your teeth is the first line of defense against cavities and infections, but it is under constant attack from the sugars and acids in your diet and the plaque that builds up throughout the day. At Holladay Smiles, Dr. Michael T. Smith offers fluoride treatments in Salt Lake City to help keep your enamel strong.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and can even help reverse very early signs of decay before a cavity fully forms. A professional fluoride treatment delivers a higher concentration of fluoride than toothpaste or tap water alone, applied directly to your teeth during a quick, simple procedure. Children are frequently offered fluoride treatments as their permanent teeth develop, but adults who are prone to cavities, have dry mouth, or have exposed tooth roots can benefit as well.

Benefits of fluoride treatments include:

• Strengthens enamel: Fluoride helps reinforce the outer layer of your teeth against acid and bacteria.
• Helps prevent cavities: Stronger enamel is more resistant to the decay process.
• Can reverse early decay: Fluoride may help remineralize very early stages of tooth decay before a cavity fully develops.
• Quick and simple: A fluoride treatment takes only a few minutes and is typically added on to a regular cleaning visit.

A fluoride treatment is usually applied as a gel, foam, or varnish directly to your teeth after your cleaning, and you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a short time afterward so it has time to work. Dr. Smith can evaluate your or your child's cavity risk at your regular cleaning and exam and recommend fluoride treatment as part of a broader plan to keep your smile healthy.