Topical fluorides are applied directly to the tooth enamel. Some examples include fluoride tooth pastes and mouthrinses, as well as fluoride treat- ments in the dental office. Systemic fluorides are those that are swal lowed. Examples include fluoridated water and dietary fluoride supplements. The maximum reduction in dental caries is achieved when fluo ride is available both topically and systemically. Dentists have used in-office fluoride treat- ments for decades to help protect the oral health of children and adults, especially patients who may be at a higher risk of developing caries. Some factors that may increase a person’s risk of devel- oping caries include the following: ∙ poor oral hygiene; ∙ active caries; ∙ eating disorders;∙ drug or alcohol abuse; ∙ lack of regular professional dental care; ∙ active orthodontic treatment combined with poor oral hygiene; ∙ high levels of caries-causing bacteria in the mouth; ∙ exposed root surfaces of teeth; ∙ decreased salivary flow, resulting in dry mouth; ∙ poor diet; ∙ existing restorations (fillings); ∙ tooth enamel defects; ∙ undergoing head and neck radiation therapy.
If you, or a family member, are at a moderate-to- high risk of developing caries, a professional fluo- ride treatment can help. The fluoride preparation used in the dental office is a much stronger con- centration than that in toothpastes or fluoride mouthrinses that may be available in a store or at a pharmacy. Professional fluoride treatments generally take just a few minutes. The fluoride may be in the form of a solution, gel, foam or varnish. Typically, it is applied with a cotton swab or brush, or it is used as a rinse or placed in a tray that is held in the mouth for several minutes. After the treatment, you may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride and help repair microscopic carious areas. Depending on your oral health status, fluoride treatments may be recommended every three, six or 12 months. Your dentist also may recommend additional preventive measures if you are at a moderate or high risk of developing caries. These measures may include over-the counter or pre- scription therapeutic products such as fluoride mouthrinses, gels or antibacterial mouthrinses. Look for products with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Products dis- playing the ADA Seal have been examined care- fully by the ADA’s Council on Scientific Affairs and have met its criteria for safety and effectiveness.
