Reviewed by Dr. Adel Elbaz, DDS, general dentist · Last reviewed
Fluoride Treatment in London, Ontario
Fluoride is a natural mineral that makes tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to the acids that cause cavities. It can even help repair very early, soft spots in the enamel before they become holes. A professional fluoride treatment gives your teeth a much stronger dose than toothpaste, in a few seconds, at the end of your cleaning.
At Lunar Smile Dentistry we recommend fluoride for most children and for adults with a higher risk of cavities or sensitive teeth.
How fluoride protects teeth
Every time you eat or drink something sugary or acidic, bacteria in plaque produce acid that pulls minerals out of your enamel. Between meals, saliva puts some of them back. Fluoride tips that balance in your favour:
- it helps enamel rebuild after acid attacks
- the rebuilt enamel is harder and more acid-resistant than before
- it slows the bacteria that make acid
That’s why fluoride can stop a small, early cavity from progressing, and why it reduces sensitivity on exposed root surfaces.
What a fluoride treatment involves
Most professional fluoride is a varnish: a thin, sticky coating painted onto the teeth with a small brush. It sets quickly when it touches saliva and keeps releasing fluoride for several hours.
- we clean and dry the teeth
- we paint the varnish on; it takes about a minute
- you can leave right away
It doesn’t hurt, needs no freezing, and children usually tolerate it easily. The teeth may look slightly yellow or feel fuzzy until you brush that evening.
Afterwards: wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking, have soft foods and lukewarm drinks for the rest of the day, and skip brushing and flossing until the evening or next morning.
Who benefits most
- Children and teens, whose enamel is still maturing. Fluoride and sealants in the grooves of back teeth together prevent most children’s cavities. See children’s dentistry.
- People with frequent cavities or many fillings and crowns
- Braces and aligner wearers, who are at risk of white spots around brackets
- People with dry mouth, from medications, medical conditions or radiation treatment
- Exposed roots from gum recession, which decay more easily and can be sensitive
- Older adults, who are more likely to have both dry mouth and exposed roots
Is fluoride safe?
Yes. Professional fluoride varnish has been used in children and adults for decades and is recommended by Canadian dental and public health organizations. The amount used is small and most of it stays on the teeth. We use only what’s needed and follow guidelines for children’s ages.
At home, use fluoride toothpaste in the right amount:
- under 3: a smear the size of a grain of rice, if your child is at risk of cavities (ask us)
- 3 to 6: a pea-sized amount, with an adult helping
- older children and adults: a pea-sized amount, spit don’t rinse
London’s tap water is fluoridated, which also helps protect teeth.
How often?
Usually at your regular cleaning, every six months. Children or adults with a high risk of cavities may benefit from treatments every three months, plus a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste. We’ll recommend what’s right for you.
Cost and coverage
Fluoride treatments are usually covered for children by dental insurance plans, and many plans cover adults too. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers fluoride as preventive care. Our fees follow the Ontario Dental Association fee guide.
Common questions
Do adults need fluoride?
Not always. If you rarely get cavities, toothpaste may be enough. If you’ve had several recent cavities, have dry mouth, gum recession, braces or sensitive teeth, a professional treatment is worth it.
Is fluoride the same as a sealant?
No. Fluoride strengthens all the enamel; sealants are plastic coatings that physically block the deep grooves of back teeth, where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. They work best together.
Can fluoride help sensitive teeth?
Yes. It can reduce sensitivity on exposed roots. For ongoing sensitivity, we’ll also look for the cause, such as gum recession or grinding.
Book a check-up in London
Fluoride is quick to add to any cleaning and check-up. Book online or call 226-884-2573. We’re open six days a week, with after-school appointments until 9 pm on weekdays. See family dentistry.
Part of our family dentistry services in London, Ontario. See all dental services.