Where Can I Buy Fluoride Treatment? Fluoride Shopping 101

Tooth decay: the arch-nemesis of healthy smiles everywhere.

Do you know there is a secret weapon in this ongoing battle? Fluoride works to prevent cavities and strengthen enamel. But here's the catch – not all fluoride treatments are created equal.

A common question in dental care is "Where can I get a fluoride treatment?" and the answer varies depending on the type of treatment you're seeking. And more importantly, which type is right for you?

Let’s explore the various types of fluoride treatments available, from professional applications to over-the-counter options. You'll learn where to find them, how to choose the right one, and when to consult a professional.

Our #1 best-tasting fluoride varnish for dental offices are here to help make your practice a happier one for your patients. 

“Where Can I Get A Fluoride Treatment?:” Types of Fluoride Treatments

When it comes to fluoride treatments, you're spoiled for choice. From varnishes to gels, foams to toothpastes, each type offers unique benefits and application methods.

But whichever one you choose, overall, these treatments work by strengthening and remineralizing tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks produced by plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth.

Fluoride varnish, applied by dental professionals, creates a protective coating on your teeth, delivering a high concentration of fluoride for maximum benefit. It's a highly concentrated, low dosage form of fluoride that's painted directly onto the tooth surface.

Dentists love this treatment because it's quick to apply and provides maximum effectiveness.  The varnish hardens when it comes into contact with saliva.  It now stays in contact with the teeth for several hours with maximum release enabling the fluoride to be absorbed into the tooth enamel.

Typically, fluoride varnish is applied by a dental professional every three to six months, but frequency can vary based on individual susceptibility to dental disease.

After application, patients should be informed that they may experience a fuzzy feel on their teeth and some residual taste. These effects are temporary and (usually) disappear within a few hours.

Fluoride Gels

Thixotropic fluoride gel typically contain a high concentration of fluoride and is applied in styrofoam trays under professional guidance. The gel stays in contact with the teeth for several minutes, allowing the fluoride to treat the enamel.

Fluoride gel for home use (or at-home fluoride) is available when prescribed by a dental office.  These fluoride gels are safe when used as directed, however it's important not to swallow the gel during applications. Swallowing fluoride gel can result in stomach upset or vomiting. Additionally some people might experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, but these effects usually subside quickly.

Note: while fluoride gels are used frequently, our offices don’t recommend them, as they’re a far less effective product compared to fluoride varnish.

Fluoride Foams

Fluoride foams are the fun, fluffy cousins of fluoride gels. They're applied in a similar manner, using a styrofoam tray. The foam expands to fill the tray, ensuring that it reaches all tooth surfaces. As the foam breaks down, it releases fluoride that's absorbed by your teeth.

Unlike gels, foams can only be applied by a dental professional. They're useful for people with a high risk of cavities or those undergoing orthodontic treatment. The foam format could be preferred by children who might find it more enjoyable than other application methods.

Fluoride foams are periodically applied similar to gels, usually every 3-6 months depending on your dental health needs. As with all fluoride treatments, it's crucial to follow your dentist's instructions and not ingest the fluoride foam.

While side effects are rare, some people might experience temporary nausea if they accidentally swallow the foam. Always spit out any excess foam after treatment and avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes afterward.

Note: while fluoride gels are used frequently, our offices don’t recommend them, as they’re a far less effective product compared to fluoride varnish.

Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride toothpaste is a simple yet effective way to replenish fluoride to your teeth on a regular basis, actively strengthening them against decay.

Over-the-counter fluoride products are widely available, ranging from toothpastes to mouthwashes, offering an accessible option for daily fluoride protection. Note that children's toothpastes often have lower fluoride contents to prevent fluorosis.

For patients experiencing sensitive teeth, using a toothpaste that combines fluoride with desensitizing ingredients is helpful.  For those highly susceptible to cavities, a high-fluoride toothpaste needs to be prescribed by your dentist might be beneficial.

To get the most benefit from fluoride toothpaste, brush with it at least twice a day for one minute each time.

Another key note is to not rinse immediately after brushing. This allows the fluoride more time to work its magic. And while both regular and prescription fluoride toothpaste is safe for daily use, it's not meant to be swallowed.

This fluoride take-home toothpaste (prescribed high-fluoride paste) is particularly a great option for patients with very bad issues and need maximum protection. 

Fluoride Mouthwash

Fluoride mouthwash can complement your brushing and flossing by delivering fluoride to areas that might be missed by your toothbrush. Plus, it leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean!

The beauty of fluoride mouthwash is its ability to reach all surfaces of your teeth, including those tricky spots between teeth and along the gum line. It's particularly beneficial for people with braces or other dental appliances that make thorough brushing challenging.

We recommend that patients use fluoride mouthwash once a day, preferably at bedtime after they brush their teeth and immediately before going to bed.  Swish the mouthwash around for about a minute before spitting it out. They should also not eat, drink, or rinse their mouth after using the mouthwash. This gives the fluoride time to stay on the teeth and do its job.

While fluoride mouthwash is generally safe, it's not recommended for children under six years old, as they may swallow it. Some people might experience a temporary change in taste sensation, but this usually resolves quickly.

Fluoride Dental Sealants

Fluoride dental sealants are like a protective force field for your teeth. They're thin, plastic coatings that are bonded onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars). These sealants contain fluoride that's slowly released over time, providing long-lasting protection against tooth decay.

The primary benefit of fluoride dental sealants is their ability to prevent cavities in the deep grooves and pits of back teeth – areas that are particularly vulnerable to decay. They're especially beneficial for children and teenagers, whose newly erupted permanent teeth are more susceptible to cavities.

The application process for dental sealants is quick and painless. Your dentist will clean and dry the tooth, apply an acidic gel to roughen the tooth surface, rinse off the gel, dry the tooth, and then apply the sealant. A special light might be used to help the sealant harden. Once applied, sealants can protect teeth from decay for up to 10 years.

Fluoride dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children as soon as their permanent molars come in. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.

Where Can I Buy Fluoride Treatment?

You can find fluoride toothpaste in big-box stores and pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and Target. In some cases, your dentist can also provide professional-grade fluoride treatments that aren't available over the counter.

However, more specific dental products will be limited to dental supply stores which only your dentist can access!

Considerations When Buying Professional Fluoride Products

Look for products that are FDA (Federal Drug Administration) and ADA (American Dental Association) approved or have similar certifications from reputable dental organizations. These certifications ensure that the product has been tested for safety and efficacy. 

This certification ensures that the product has been tested for safety and efficacy.

Professional fluoride treatments are more concentrated than over-the-counter products and may have specific application methods or precautions. If you're unsure about anything, don't hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer or your dental professional for clarification.

Your dentist can assess your oral health, consider your lifestyle factors, and recommend products that will be most beneficial for you. They can also provide instructions on proper use and monitor your progress over time.

“Where Can I Find Fluoride Treatment?:" Grab the Best-Tasting Fluoride Varnish & Prophy Paste for Your Practice

Wonderful Dental is your one-stop shop for high-quality and great-tasting fluoride varnishes and prophy pastes to make professional fluoride treatments accessible (and enjoyable) to everyone.

Get started with a free sample for your practice today for more healthy and wonderful smiles.