Fluoride Treatment (Topical application of fluoride)

What is a fluoride treatment?

Fluoride treatment is an office-application of a gel with high concentration of fluoride (10-12,000 ppm).  These specific gels come in various fruit flavors that are acceptable by children.  

What is the exact technique and its advantages?

The gel is applied to specially designed trays for both the upper and lower jaw.  These trays are placed in the mouth and are left in place for 4 minutes. 

Fluoride treatments increase teeth resistance against caries up to 40%.

Which group of patients need to have fluoride treatments and how often?

Mainly children and teenagers, as well as adults with high risk of root caries.  Fluoride gels are usually applied every 6 months.  However, patients with high risk of caries should have fluoride treatments  every  3 months.