Fluoride treatment is a vital part of preventive dental care for children. While your child may receive fluoride from drinking water or toothpaste, an in-office fluoride treatment offers additional protection against cavities and long-term oral health problems. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps strengthen enamel, the protective outer layer of the tooth, making it more resistant to acids from plaque and food. Pediatric fluoride treatments in Burnsville, Minnesota, during your child’s developmental years supports healthy, cavity-resistant teeth.
How Fluoride Works to Protect Teeth
Every day, acids from bacteria and food break down your child’s tooth enamel, causing a process called demineralization. This weakens the enamel and increases the risk of tooth decay. Fluoride helps to reverse this process by encouraging remineralization, which restores essential minerals to the enamel and hardens it. Fluoride also disrupts the activity of bacteria in the mouth, further protecting your child’s teeth from damage.
In children, fluoride treatment plays an especially important role during the early years of tooth development. The presence of fluoride strengthens developing teeth even before they erupt through the gums. Once the teeth are fully grown, topical fluoride helps maintain strong enamel and prevent decay from daily wear.
What to Expect During a Fluoride Treatment
A fluoride treatment is quick, painless and can be completed during your child’s routine dental visit. After evaluating your child’s oral health and reviewing their current fluoride exposure, our dentists and team may recommend professional treatment to enhance protection. Fluoride can be applied in the form of a varnish, gel or foam, depending on your child’s needs. The material is brushed or placed directly onto the teeth and left to absorb for several minutes.
After the treatment, your child may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to fully absorb. The benefits begin immediately and continue to protect the teeth between visits.
Is Fluoride Safe for Children?
Yes, fluoride is safe and effective when used in appropriate amounts. Dental professionals follow strict guidelines to ensure that fluoride treatments are administered safely. While too much fluoride can lead to fluorosis — a condition that causes minor discoloration of developing teeth — the controlled dosage used at Twin Cities Modern Dentistry office poses no risk to your child’s health. If you have questions about fluoride exposure at home or through your community water supply, our dentists can help guide you on the best practices.
To find out if your child could benefit from a fluoride treatment in Burnsville, MN, contact our office at 952-435-4177 and make an appointment with Dr. Mike Henrickson or Dr. Laureen Ballinger. We are here to help support your child’s smile with preventive care that encourages a lifetime of healthy teeth.