Topical Fluoride Treatment Melbourne
Strengthening and Protecting Your Teeth from Cavities and Tooth Decay
Fluoride is your teeth's best friend, strengthening enamel and protecting against decay. If you're not getting enough fluoride, your teeth are more prone to cavities.
Smile Place Dental offers fluoride treatments to coat and protect your teeth, helping to fight off decay.
Contact us to find out if you need topical fluoride treatment.
Schedule Your Dental Appointment Today for a Healthy Smile Tomorrow!
Book An AppointmentWhat is Topical Fluoride Treatment?
One of the causes of tooth decay is when your tooth enamel isn’t strong enough to protect the tooth. This is usually due to damage by bacteria that’s present in your mouth. Bacteria produce acids that can further erode your enamel and create cavities.
The solution for this is fluoride – a natural mineral that has been found to protect and strengthen the enamel of teeth. There are two types of application methods. Direct application, known as topical fluoride, happens through regular use of toothpaste or mouthwash. Systemic fluoride happens through ingested food, water, and supplements.
However, not everyone gets the necessary amount of fluoride needed to protect their teeth. Topical fluoride treatment makes up for this. By intentionally applying a fluoride-rich substance directly to your teeth so it seeps into the enamel’s tiny pores, dentists are able to help strengthen your natural enamel or repair early enamel damage.
How Do I Know If I Need Topical Fluoride Treatment?
If you’re considering whether you might need topical fluoride treatment, here are some signs to look out for:
- Frequent Cavities – If you have a history of developing cavities regularly, this treatment can help strengthen your enamel and prevent further decay.
- Sensitive Teeth – If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods, it could be a sign that your enamel is weakened and could benefit from fluoride treatment.
- Early Signs of Tooth Decay – White spots or discoloration on your teeth can indicate the early stages of decay, which fluoride can help reverse.
- Dry Mouth – Saliva helps protect your teeth from decay, and if you have a dry mouth, you might not be getting enough natural protection. Fluoride can help compensate for this.
- Gum Recession – When gums recede, they expose more of your tooth surfaces to potential decay. Fluoride can help protect these areas.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – If you struggle with maintaining good oral hygiene, fluoride can provide extra protection against decay.
- High Sugar Diet – Consuming a lot of sugary foods and drinks can increase your risk of tooth decay, and fluoride treatment can help mitigate this risk.
- Braces or Other Dental Appliances – Depending on the type of braces or dental appliance you wear, you might be at a higher risk for decay around the brackets and wires, simply because they are more prone to catching bits of food.
- Recent Dental Work – If you’ve had fillings, crowns, or other dental work, fluoride can help protect the surrounding teeth and prevent further issues.
That said, the safest way to check if you’re fluoride-deficit is to consult your dentist. Smile Place dentists are experienced in recognising when tooth enamel is weak and can advise if your condition calls for home or professional fluoride treatment.
Come see our dentists at:
Smile Place
Forrest Hill Dental
249 Canterbury RoadForest Hill 3131
Map Link 03 9877 3724 Book An Appointment
Smile Place
Glen Iris Dental
38 High StreetGlen Iris 3146
View Map 03 9048 1026 Book An Appointment
Smile Place
Tecoma Dental
1586 Burwood HighwayTecoma 3160
View Map 03 9754 2148 Book An Appointment
Why Choose Smile Place?
Choosing a dental provider is a significant decision for your health, comfort, and smile aesthetics. At Smile Place Dental, we have solid reasons to be your top choice:
1. Experience and Expertise
Our team of skilled dentists and hygienists have decades of combined experience across all facets of dentistry. Our practitioners are dedicated to staying abreast of the latest research and technology, ensuring you receive cutting-edge solutions and treatments that uphold the highest standards of dental care.
2. Comprehensive Dental Care
At Smile Place Dental, we offer a broad range of dental services, from providing preventive care to routine checkups and advanced procedures like dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. This holistic approach means you can trust us to cater to all your dental needs under one roof.
3. Patient-Centred Approach
We understand that every patient is unique, and so are their dental needs. That’s why we create personalised treatment plans that respect your preferences and lifestyle while aiming for optimal oral health and a radiant smile.
4. State-of-the-Art Technology
We invest in advanced dental technology to provide safe, efficient, and comfortable treatment experiences. Whether it’s digital x-rays for lower radiation exposure or intraoral scanners for precise impressions, we leverage the best in dental technology for superior results.
5. Comfortable and Relaxing Environment
Dental anxiety is real, and we take it seriously. Our clinic is designed to evoke a serene and calming ambiance, helping you relax throughout your visit. Our caring staff are trained to provide gentle care, taking the time to explain procedures and answer any questions you might have.
6. Affordability and Transparency
We are committed to delivering quality dental care that’s financially accessible. We offer various payment options, accept most insurance plans, and provide transparent cost estimates before beginning any treatment.
At Smile Place Dental, we make it our mission to ensure that every visit enhances not just your oral health, but also your overall well-being. With us, you will feel heard, cared for, and confident that you’re getting the best dental care. Choose Smile Place Dental – where your smile is our passion.
Schedule Your Dental Appointment Today for a Healthy Smile Tomorrow!
Book An Appointment- FAQs
What is topical fluoride treatment?
Topical fluoride treatment involves applying a fluoride-rich substance directly to the teeth to strengthen the enamel and help prevent tooth decay.
How does fluoride help prevent tooth decay?
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by promoting the remineralisation of enamel and making teeth more resistant to acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
Is fluoride treatment safe for children?
Yes, fluoride treatment is safe for children and can help protect their developing teeth from decay.
How often should I get a professional fluoride treatment?
Professional fluoride treatments are typically recommended every six months, but your dentist may suggest a different frequency based on your individual needs.
What types of fluoride treatments are available?
Fluoride treatments are available in various forms, including gels, foams, varnishes, and rinses, which are applied by a dental professional.
Can I get enough fluoride from toothpaste alone?
While fluoride toothpaste provides daily protection, professional fluoride treatments offer a higher concentration that can provide additional benefits, especially for those at higher risk of decay.
Are there any side effects of fluoride treatment?
Side effects of fluoride treatment are rare, but some people might experience tooth discoloration called fluorosis from high concentrations of fluoride. This can occur in children while their teeth are developing, so dentists recommend using low-fluoride toothpaste for kids.
Who should consider fluoride treatments?
Individuals with a high risk of tooth decay, such as those with frequent cavities, gum recession, or braces, should consider fluoride treatments.
How long does a professional fluoride treatment take?
A professional fluoride treatment typically takes only a few minutes during a routine dental visit. The fluoride will stick to your teeth for a few hours after, to give time for your teeth to absorb the fluoride.
What should I do after receiving a fluoride treatment?
After receiving a fluoride treatment, avoid eating, drinking, or rinsing your mouth for at least 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into the enamel. For at least 6 hours after, avoid eating hot or acidic foods. You can resume brushing and flossing your teeth after 6 hours.