Fluoride: The Secret to Stronger Teeth
Keeping your teeth healthy goes beyond brushing and flossing. At The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach, we offer professional fluoride treatments designed to give your smile an extra layer of protection against cavities and decay. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making your teeth more resistant to everyday wear and acid attacks from food and bacteria.
Whether for children who are still developing strong teeth or adults looking to maintain lifelong oral health, fluoride treatments are a safe, quick, and effective way to invest in your smile.
What Are Fluoride Treatments?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in food or water as well as tooth paste and mouthwash. Professional grade dental fluoride remineralizes your teeth’s enamel, creating a stronger tooth more resistant to staining, acid, decay, cavities, and bacteria. They can be applied via a foam, varnish, or gel.
Fluoride Treatment Process at The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach
Fluoride treatments are quick and painless, often incorporated into routine dental exams and cleanings. At The Foleck Center we use modern and state-of-the-art materials so patient walk away with beautiful and resilient teeth. Fluoride treatments come in 3 types, one of which dentists will decide to use depending on the patient’s age and oral health needs.
Types of Fluoride Treatments
- Foam - Applied onto a tray and than placed over teeth for a short period of time. Often the most affordable treatment type.
- Varnish - Concentrated fluoride painted onto teeth allowing. A popular option for children and seniors due to quickness of application and effectiveness against cavities.
- Gel - Can be painted directly onto teeth or applied via tray, offering complete coverage on all teeth at once.
Once the fluoride is applied, your dentist will provided instructions on how long you should wait before eating or drinking in order to get the most effective results.
Who Can Benefit from Fluoride Treatments?
From kids with growing smiles to adults protecting their teeth for the long run, fluoride treatments are a simple way to keep enamel strong and healthy at any age. Fluoride is especially helpful for:
- Children developing strong, healthy teeth
- Adults prone to cavities or tooth sensitivity
- Patients with weakened enamel or early signs of decay
- Those with braces or other orthodontic appliances
- Anyone who wants extra protection at routine dental visits
Costs of Fluoride Treatments
Professional fluoride treatments can generally cost between $20-$50 depending on the type used.
At The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach, the cost of fluoride treatment typically includes the application of a professional-grade varnish or gel designed to protect your teeth. Many dental insurance plans cover fluoride as part of routine cleanings and preventive care, making it an affordable way to strengthen your smile. If you’d like details about your coverage or out-of-pocket costs, our friendly team is always here to walk you through your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does fluoride have a taste?
Yes.
Fluoride varnishes and gels may have a mild flavor, but it’s usually very subtle and fades quickly after application. Most patients find it easy to tolerate.
Why do children and teens need fluoride?
Primary teeth (baby teeth) typically have thinner enamel than adult teeth making them more prone to cavities and damage. Fluoride is a safe and effective way to give your child’s teeth extra protection against cavities and support overall oral health, setting them up for a bright and smile-filled future.
Is there a limit to how much fluoride treatment I can get?
Fluoride is safe when applied professionally. At The Foleck Center, we typically recommend treatments during your routine dental visits or as needed for added protection, based on your individual oral health needs.
Will fluoride color my teeth?
No.
Professional fluoride does not stain or discolor your teeth. In fact, it helps protect enamel and keep your smile looking bright and healthy.
How long does it take to apply fluoride?
The application is quick and painless, usually taking just a few minutes. Afterward, you may be asked to wait a short time before eating or drinking to allow the fluoride to fully absorb.
Are there at-home fluoride treatments?
Yes.
Certain toothpaste and mouth rinses contain fluoride and can help strengthen enamel when used daily at home.
However, the professional-grade fluoride applied at The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach is much stronger and offers longer-lasting protection, making it an excellent complement to your at-home routine.
Keep Your Smile Strong with The Foleck Center
At The Foleck Center in Virginia Beach, we make fluoride treatments simple, effective, and comfortable for patients of all ages. Our experienced team combines advanced preventive care with a welcoming environment to help you protect your smile for years to come.
Ready to give your teeth an extra layer of protection?
Schedule your fluoride treatment at The Foleck Center Virginia Beach office today and keep your smile healthy, bright, and cavity-free!
