Fluoride treatment a safe and effective way for kids in Alpharetta, GA to keep their smiles healthy

The naturally occurring mineral, fluoride, is such a powerful preventive dental treatment that the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that parents and caregivers use an (albeit tiny) bit of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth breaks through a child’s gums. Depending on your child’s risk for tooth decay such as cavities, we at Bella Hanono Family Dentistry in Alpharetta, GA may recommend fluoride supplementation every three to six months. This easy and safe treatment is not just for kids; however, it is a great way to get your child off on to a healthy start.

ABCs of fluoride

Fluoride is naturally present in trace amounts in water, and other sources (some fruits and grains, for instance). We can also get a fluoride “boost” from an array of products. Regardless of if the fluoride is applied as a rinse, gel, varnish, or foam, it is generally used to:

  • Bolster the protective covering of our teeth, or enamel
  • Encourage the teeth to better absorb beneficial minerals, like calcium
  • Of particular benefit for children, as teeth are developing, it strengthens the tooth’s natural defenses, making the enamel less susceptible to damage from bacteria
  • Slows down, and can even reverse, the process of tooth decay by interfering with the bacteria that promote cavities

In turn, fluoride in childhood can make the teeth more resilient for life as it has a positive effect on oral development. Additionally, fluoride treatment supports the health of the baby or primary teeth. Parents may underestimate the importance of baby teeth because they fall out. While temporary, these teeth encourage the healthy development of the permanent or adult teeth. Without them, the adult teeth may grow in improperly.

Fluoride application under the guidance of Dr. Hanono is also very safe, non-invasive, fast, painless, and cost-effective. In fact, as a preventive service, many insurance plans generally cover 100% of the cost of treatment. It is also significantly more affordable and far less traumatic than restorative treatments to resolve existing decay or disease. Schedule your child’s check-up today, to see how fluoride treatment may be able to aid in keeping their happy, healthy smile.