Dental Sealants
A thin, clear coating on back teeth that helps keep food and germs out of grooves.
About dental sealantsPreventive care
Fluoride treatment in Herriman
If you or your child seem to get cavities no matter how well you brush, a fluoride treatment can give your enamel extra strength. It takes just a few minutes at your visit.
What does a fluoride treatment do?
Fluoride is a mineral that helps make tooth enamel harder and better at resisting acid. An in-office treatment puts a stronger dose on your teeth than toothpaste can. It may help repair very early soft spots before they turn into cavities.
- Applied as a foam, gel or varnish
- Takes only a few minutes
- Often given to kids, and to adults with a high cavity risk
Who fluoride can help
Kids often get fluoride at their regular checkups while their adult teeth come in. Teens and adults can benefit too, especially if you have:
- A history of frequent cavities
- Dry mouth from medicines or a health condition
- Gums that have pulled back and left roots exposed
- Braces or aligners that make cleaning harder
- Deep pits and grooves in your back teeth
- Sensitive teeth
Your dentist looks at your cavity history and your daily habits to decide if fluoride makes sense for you. For deep grooves on back teeth, sealants can add another layer of protection.
What to expect
- Clean teeth first. Fluoride is usually applied right after your cleaning.
- Applying it. Fluoride foam or gel is placed in soft trays that you hold in your mouth for a short time.
- Finishing up. Any extra is wiped or suctioned away. You can go about your day.
The taste is mild, and kids can often pick a flavor. It does not hurt.
After your fluoride treatment
Follow the instructions we give you. In most cases, that means waiting about 30 minutes to an hour before you eat or drink. Skip very hot drinks and hard or crunchy foods for the rest of the day if you had varnish. Keep brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to help the effect last.
Cost and insurance
Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.
FAQ
Questions about fluoride treatment
How long does a fluoride treatment protect teeth?
The effect builds up with regular use. That is why it is often repeated every three, six or twelve months based on your cavity risk.
Is fluoride safe for kids?
In-office fluoride uses a small, measured amount and is placed by our team. Young kids should use only a rice-sized smear of toothpaste and spit it out, so they do not swallow too much.
Do I still need fluoride toothpaste?
Yes. Daily fluoride toothpaste and in-office treatments work together. The treatment gives a strong boost, and your toothpaste keeps up the protection each day.
Should my child get fluoride or sealants?
Many kids benefit from both. Fluoride strengthens all tooth surfaces. Sealants cover the deep grooves on back teeth where a toothbrush has a hard time reaching.
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Call to book your visit
Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.