Lumin8 Dentistry provides fluoride treatments in Lakewood, WA. Call (253) 581-6140 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
When you think about protecting your smile, fluoride might not be the first thing that comes to mind, or if it is, you may have questions about whether it’s actually effective. This naturally occurring mineral acts as your teeth’s personal bodyguard, strengthening enamel and fighting off the daily assault of acids and bacteria that threaten your dental health. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s cavity risk or an adult looking to protect your teeth as you age, fluoride treatments offer a simple, painless way to keep your smile healthy for years to come. At Lumin8 Dentistry in Lakewood, WA, we offer professional fluoride treatments as part of our comprehensive preventive dentistry approach. Dr. Jun Carrington and our team understand that every patient has unique oral health needs and preferences, and we’re here to help you determine whether fluoride treatments are right for you and your family.What Are Fluoride Treatments?
Fluoride treatments are professional applications of a concentrated fluoride solution to your teeth. Unlike the fluoride found in toothpaste or tap water, professional treatments contain a much higher concentration of this protective mineral, allowing your teeth to absorb more of its strengthening benefits in a single session. During a fluoride treatment at our Lakewood office, we apply the fluoride in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish directly to your teeth. The entire process takes just a few minutes and is completely painless. After application, the fluoride works to remineralize your tooth enamel, making it more immune to decay-causing acids. The treatment helps in several ways. Fluoride protects teeth from cavities by restoring enamel damaged by plaque through a process called remineralization. It also decreases the loss of minerals from tooth enamel and disrupts acid production in already-formed cavities, preventing them from growing larger.Who Benefits from Fluoride Treatments?
While fluoride treatments can benefit patients of all ages, certain groups see particularly significant advantages. Children and adolescents are prime candidates, as their developing teeth are especially vulnerable to cavities. The American Dental Association recommends fluoride treatments for children to protect their teeth during these formative years. Adults with certain risk factors also benefit greatly from fluoride treatments. If you have a history of frequent cavities, gum disease, or deep pits and grooves in your teeth, fluoride can provide extra protection. Those with dry mouth conditions, whether from medications or medical treatments, often need additional fluoride support since saliva naturally helps protect teeth. Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces face an increased risk of cavities due to the difficulty of thoroughly cleaning around brackets and wires. Regular fluoride treatments can help protect these vulnerable areas. Similarly, if you have crowns, bridges, or other dental restorations, fluoride treatments can help shield the natural tooth structure around these appliances.The Fluoride Treatment Process
When you visit Lumin8 Dentistry for a fluoride treatment, the process is straightforward and comfortable. We begin by cleaning your teeth to eliminate any plaque or debris, ensuring the fluoride can make direct contact with your tooth enamel. Next, we apply the fluoride treatment using one of several methods. Varnish is painted directly onto your teeth and hardens quickly upon contact with saliva. Foam or gel may be placed in a tray that you hold in your mouth for a few minutes. Some treatments involve a rinse that you swish around your mouth. After the treatment, we recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into your teeth. The entire appointment typically takes just a few minutes beyond your regular cleaning. Most patients benefit from fluoride treatments every six months during their routine dental checkups and cleanings. However, if you’re at higher risk of cavities, Dr. Carrington may recommend more frequent applications, potentially every 3 to 4 months.Fluoride Safety and Effectiveness
Many patients have questions about fluoride safety, and we’re always happy to address these concerns. Professional fluoride treatments have been used safely in dentistry for decades. The amount of fluoride used in professional treatments is carefully managed and safe when applied correctly by dental professionals. While some people worry about fluoride, the concentrations used in dental treatments are much different from those in drinking water or toothpaste, and any excess is removed after treatment. Our team at Lumin8 Dentistry follows strict protocols to ensure your safety and comfort during every procedure. The benefits of fluoride treatments are well-documented. Research continually shows that professional fluoride applications can reduce cavity formation by up to 45% in children and adolescents. For children, this means fewer painful cavities and less need for fillings. For adults, it means better protection against decay, especially around existing dental work and at the gum line where roots may be exposed.Protect Your Smile at Lumin8 Dentistry
Your teeth face daily challenges from the foods you eat, the beverages you drink, and the bacteria that naturally live in your mouth. Fluoride treatments provide an additional layer of defense, strengthening your enamel and helping prevent cavities before they start. In conjunction with high-quality oral hygiene and regular dental visits, fluoride treatments can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile throughout your life. At Lumin8 Dentistry, Dr. Jun Carrington brings years of experience and advanced education from the prestigious Kois Center to every aspect of your care. Our practice is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including digital X-rays and intraoral scanners, ensuring you receive the most precise diagnoses and effective treatments available. We accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible financing options through Cherry and CareCredit to make quality dental care accessible to all Lakewood families. Schedule your appointment today by visiting our contact page or calling our office, and let us help you and your family gain optimal oral health.Affiliations & Education
