+ 1 415-499-1717
appointments@evosmile.com
750 Las Gallinas Ave, Suite 210
San Rafael, CA 94903
Open Monday - Thursday
Closed Friday - Sunday
Fluoride Treatments
DR. IGOR OCHEV, SAN RAFAEL DENTIST
Do you live in an area of Marin that doesn’t fluoridate its water?
Fluoride is a mineral naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. However, the water supply serving Novato and surrounding parts of West Marin is fluoride free.
Fluoride treatments not only help prevent tooth decay, they can repair teeth in the very early, microscopic stages of the disease. Dr. Igor Ochev may recommend treatments if you’re not getting enough fluoride naturally.
Topical fluorides are applied directly to tooth enamel. They strengthen your teeth by seeping into the surface of the enamel, making them more resistant to decay. We generally recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during check-ups.
Systemic fluorides are swallowed. Examples include fluoridated water and dietary fluoride supplements. Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years.
IMPORTANT: Monitor the amounts of fluoride that children ingest. If too much fluoride is consumed while their teeth are developing, a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) may result.
7 Reasons for a Fluoride Treatment
Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surface
Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
Fair to poor oral hygiene habits
Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
Inadequate exposure to fluorides
Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments, or medications
Recent history of dental decay
GETTING FLUORIDE
What to Expect
The fluoride preparation we use in our office is a much stronger concentration than what you find in products at the store. The treatment generally takes just a few minutes.
Your Visit
The fluoride may be in the form of a solution, gel, foam, or varnish. Typically, it’s applied with a cotton swab or brush, used as a rinse, or placed in a tray that’s held in your mouth for several minutes.
After the treatment, you may be asked not to rinse, eat, or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow your teeth to absorb the fluoride and help repair microcavities.
Possible Recommendations
Depending on your oral health status, we may recommend fluoride treatments every three, six or 12 months.
If you’re at moderate or high risk of developing tooth decay, we may recommend additional preventive measures which may include over-the-counter or prescription therapeutic products.
A Gentle Reminder
Fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay. It’s important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit us on a regular basis.
If you’re interested in more facts about fluoride, check out this medically-reviewed, 6 minute read by WebMD called “Dental Health & Fluoride Treatment.”
Our Other Preventative Dental Services
Exams & Cleanings
When we can spot problems early, treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable.
Why check-ups are so importantDigital X-rays
These x-rays improve your safety and comfort as well as our diagnostic accuracy.
7 Things X-rays May RevealDigital Cavity Detection
Our digital intraoral scanner screens the space between your teeth for hidden decay.
Discover how it worksDental Sealants
When a tooth is hard to clean and very susceptible to decay, a sealant can protect it.
Learn more about this barrierHome Dental Care
In addition to your regular visits, let us help you get into a great routine that can last a lifetime.
Get tips to help you succeedPatient Savings & Financial Options
At EvoSmile, dental care is empathy care.
Your oral health profoundly affects your overall health. For this reason, we would never want you to hold off on your dental care because of cost — whether or not you carry insurance. This is why we offer the following solutions to ease your worry and your pocketbook.
New Patient Offer
Get a comprehensive dental exam including necessary X-rays, an oral cancer screening, a periodontal exam, a TMJ evaluation, and a regular cleaning.
Learn About This & Your First VisitNo Insurance? Save with Us
If you don’t have insurance, you'll want to take a look at our very own savings plans. We designed them with your dental needs in mind.
Discover our Dental Savings PlansFinancing & Payment Options
If you’re interested in affordable financing and monthly payments, we offer options from CareCredit and Cherry.
Find out if you pre-qualifyInsurance Benefits
We’re an out-of-network dental office that accepts insured patients with PPO plans. Get answers to commonly asked questions.
Check out our Insurance FAQs