Fluoride Treatment

What is Fluoride and Why is it Important for Teeth?

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally and which can be found in some water supplies and certain foods as well as toothpaste and some mouthwashes. It is important for dental health as it strengthens the tooth enamel which is the hard outer layer that protects teeth. Every day this layer of enamel comes under attack from strong acids that are produced by the many bacteria that live in the mouth. These acids soften the outer layer of tooth enamel and eventually can cause cavities. Children’s teeth are covered in a thinner layer of enamel than adults so the added protection of fluoride can help increase their resistance to tooth decay.

How Can I Tell If My Child Is Receiving Sufficient Fluoride?

Our dentists will examine your child’s teeth to see if they could benefit from additional fluoride. We can also discuss the use of fluoride toothpaste and will prescribe fluoride supplements for use at home if required.

What Type of Fluoride Treatments are Offered at One Smile?

We can apply fluoride to your child’s teeth in a number of different ways. One option is to use a professional strength fluoride mouthwash which can be given at their regular check-ups and is swirled around the mouth for one minute before the excess is spat out. Another option is to use mouth trays filled with fluoride gel which are left in the mouth for several minutes to allow the fluoride to penetrate the teeth. We can also use a fluoride varnish which is painted onto the teeth and left to penetrate overnight before being brushed off.

Can My Child Have Too Much Fluoride?

It is possible for a child to have too much fluoride. White or brown spots can form on the surface of their teeth due to a condition called fluorosis. Make sure your child always spits out excess fluoride toothpaste and keep fluoride mouthwash out of reach at home so it can only be used when you are supervising your child.

For more information, please call us on (03) 9887 4539 in Wantirna South, on (03) 9886 7551 in Glen Waverley and on (03) 8794 9777 in Narre Warren.

Our practices are located at 3 Rezes St, Wantirna South VIC 3152, 228 Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley VIC 3150 and 5/2-8 Victor Cres, Narre Warren VIC 3805.