Understanding Topical Fluoride Treatment
Topical fluoride treatment can help keep teeth healthy. Fluoride is a natural mineral. It helps prevent tooth decay. Topical means the fluoride is applied to the surfaces of the teeth.
Most toothpastes have fluoride in them. But children and some adults need extra fluoride treatment. This can be done with fluoride varnish, gel, foam, or rinse. It is prescribed by your doctor or dentist. Topical fluoride is safe, and used by dentists and doctors all over the world to help prevent tooth decay.
How does topical fluoride treatment help?
Topical fluoride makes tooth enamel stronger. Enamel is the hard outer layer of the teeth. Enamel wears away over time when you eat and drink. When fluoride comes into contact with enamel, it helps the enamel rebuild itself. This is called remineralization.
This process makes the teeth more resistant to acid from bacteria and sugars in the mouth. This helps prevent cavities. Topical fluoride can also reduce tooth sensitivity if you have exposed tooth roots or worn enamel.
Who may need topical fluoride treatment?
Topical fluoride can help:
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Children. A child’s teeth are more likely to decay. Fluoride protects against this.
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Adults at risk. Some adults have a higher risk of cavities. This includes people who have a dry mouth, a history of many cavities, or an orthodontic appliance. Fluoride helps prevent cavities.
Types of topical fluoride treatment
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Fluoride varnish. This is a sticky fluoride coating. It’s applied to the tooth surfaces with a small brush. It sticks to the teeth and gives fluoride to the teeth for a few hours. This is done in a dentist’s office. For a child, it may be done in a pediatrician’s office. The varnish is brushed off after 4 to 12 hours. The teeth may look yellow or dull before then.
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Fluoride gel or foam. This is applied with a mouthguard and left on the teeth for a few minutes. This is done in a dentist’s office.
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Fluoride rinse. This is a liquid that you use like mouthwash. You swirl it in your mouth and then spit it out. You use it after brushing your teeth. You may do this in a dentist’s office. Or you may use a rinse at home once a day or as advised.
Topical fluoride treatment can be done 2 to 4 times a year, or as advised by your dentist.
Topical fluoride treatment can’t fully prevent cavities. You also need to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, use dental floss, and eat a healthy diet.
After fluoride treatment
Follow specific instructions from your dentist. The following are general guidelines:
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You can eat and drink right after the topical fluoride is applied. But stick to soft foods for a few hours.
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Don’t have hot foods or drinks for a few hours. Choose warm or cold food and drinks instead.
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Don’t brush or floss teeth for at least 4 to 6 hours, or as advised by the dentist.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rita Sather RN
Date Last Reviewed:
5/1/2025
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