BRENT CAPLE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY IN ROGERS, AR
Fluoride Treatment for Children
What is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps protect teeth from cavities by strengthening and restoring tooth enamel. It’s found in many everyday sources—like drinking water, certain foods, and dental products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses. Dentists also offer professional fluoride applications to give children’s teeth extra protection against decay.
What is a Fluoride Treatment or Varnish?
A fluoride treatment (also called fluoride varnish) involves applying a concentrated form of fluoride directly to the surface of your child’s teeth. This treatment helps harden enamel, making it more resistant to cavities and acid damage.
Is Fluoride Safe for Kids?
Yes — fluoride is safe and highly effective when used appropriately.
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, plants, and rocks. In fact, many communities add fluoride to public water supplies because of its proven ability to reduce cavities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes fluoride as one of the top public health achievements of the 20th century for its role in preventing tooth decay.
The main concern with overuse is dental fluorosis, a harmless cosmetic condition that can cause faint white spots on developing teeth. This typically occurs when children swallow too much toothpaste. By using fluoride appropriately and under the care of a dental professional, you can safely give your child the best defense against cavities.
Why Are Fluoride Treatments Important?
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps repair early signs of tooth decay through a natural process called remineralization. This process restores essential minerals like calcium and phosphate to enamel that has been weakened by acids from food and bacteria.
In short, fluoride both protects and repairs—making it one of the most powerful tools in preventing cavities and promoting long-term oral health for children.
What to Expect During a Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatments are quick, easy, and completely painless.
At the end of your child’s routine cleaning and exam, Dr. Caple gently brushes a fluoride varnish onto their teeth. The varnish hardens almost instantly when it comes in contact with saliva, allowing your child to eat and drink shortly after their appointment.
Most children benefit from professional fluoride treatments at each regular dental cleaning, but Dr. Caple will make recommendations based on your child’s specific needs.
Schedule a Fluoride Treatment in Rogers, AR
At Dr. Brent Caple’s pediatric dental office in Rogers, Arkansas, we proudly provide fluoride treatments and preventive care for children across Northwest Arkansas. We’re always accepting new patients and look forward to helping your child enjoy a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
Call our office today or request an appointment online to schedule your child’s dental cleaning, exam, and fluoride treatment!
To schedule an appointment at the office of Brent Caple, DDS, pediatric dentist serving Northwest Arkansas, request an appointment online or call our office today.