At Kids Dental Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, our experienced board-certified pediatric dentistry specialist Dr. Bosede Adeniji and our team focus on making every visit a positive one for both children and their parents.
We understand that some children need extra support, especially those with dental phobia or special needs, and we work closely with families to help every child feel safe and secure.
Extra protective steps, like fluoride treatments, are one way we reduce future dental problems and help your child spend less time in the dental chair over time. Here, we explain what you need to know about fluoride treatments.
Fluoride treatments involve applying a safe, concentrated form of fluoride — a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel — directly to your child’s teeth. The varnish stays on their teeth for around 4-12 hours, and you (or your child) brushes it off at home.
This simple, painless in-office treatment only takes a few minutes, and it can lead to long-term oral health benefits for your child.
While regular checkups and good oral hygiene are essential, fluoride offers an extra layer of defense, which is particularly important for growing smiles.
At Kids Dental Center, Dr. Adeniji and our team recommend fluoride treatments because they:
The goal is to keep your child smiling — and to make dental visits as easy as possible for your whole family.
About 95% of Maryland residents have fluoridated water. The CDC explains that you need fluoridated water and fluoride toothpaste to help prevent cavities in children.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry adds that many children also need fluoride treatments at their dentist's office. Evidence from more than 23 clinical trials, gathered over many years, supports the twice-yearly use of topical fluoride treatments in children younger than 5 with an elevated risk of tooth decay.
Many children in this age group are at risk for cavities, as they're still learning good oral health habits. Depending on your child's history of tooth decay and oral health habits, they may need fluoride treatments after age 5 too.
Fortunately, they're a painless, easy treatment. Many kids actually like the taste of the fluoride varnish!
Ultimately, fluoride treatments cut cavity risk around 25%. Combining them with fluoridated water and toothpaste can help keep your child healthy.
If your child is ready for extra protection with fluoride treatments, call our office at 301-345-2881 to book an appointment with Dr. Adeniji at Kids Dental Center in Greenbelt.
