Preventive care

Fluoride treatment in Lehi

Tired of hearing about a new cavity at every checkup? A few minutes of fluoride at your cleaning can help enamel stand up better to decay, for kids and grown-ups alike.

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What is a fluoride treatment?

Fluoride is a natural mineral. It makes enamel better at resisting the acid that leads to cavities. In the office, we coat your teeth with a fluoride much stronger than toothpaste for a few minutes. That can help repair soft spots before they become holes.

Over in a few minutes
Good for kids and for adults who get cavities often
Pairs with brushing every day using fluoride toothpaste

Who fluoride can help

Children often get fluoride at checkups because their teeth are still growing in. Teens and adults can benefit as well. It may be a good fit if you:

Needed several fillings over the past few years
Deal with dry mouth because of a medicine or health issue
Have exposed roots where the gums have pulled away
Have deep pits and grooves on your molars
Have braces, or a mouth full of crowns and fillings

To decide if you need fluoride, and how often, your dentist reviews your cavity history and daily habits. If your back teeth have deep grooves, sealants may be added too.

What to expect

Clean teeth. We place fluoride right after your cleaning, when the enamel is free of plaque.
Coat or tray. We either paint a thin layer onto your teeth or fill soft foam trays that you hold in place briefly.
Wrap up. We wipe or rinse off what is left, then tell you how long to hold off on food and drinks.

Most kids find the taste mild, and there are flavors made with them in mind. Tell us if your child gags easily, and we will take it slow.

After your treatment

Hold off on eating, drinking and brushing for as long as your hygienist suggests. That pause lets the fluoride soak into the enamel. After that, pick your usual routine back up: fluoride toothpaste twice a day and cleaning between teeth daily.

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.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about fluoride treatment

How often should fluoride be repeated?

Its benefit builds with repeat visits. Depending on your cavity risk, your dentist may suggest it every three, six or twelve months.

Is in-office fluoride okay for young children?

Yes, when it is used correctly. We use a small, measured amount. At home, little ones need only a rice-sized smear or a pea-sized dab of toothpaste, and they should spit it out.

When can I eat after fluoride?

That depends on which type was used. Before you leave, your hygienist will tell you exactly how long to wait.

Does my child need fluoride, sealants or both?

Often both, since each has its own job. Fluoride toughens every surface of the tooth. Sealants cover the deep grooves on molars. Your dentist will suggest what suits your child.

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