Fluoride Treatments & Fluoride Free Solutions

Fluoride has been held in high regard by the dental community for decades. It helps to prevent tooth decay by being absorbed into tooth enamel.

In most U.S. communities, public drinking water is supplemented with sodium fluoride because the practice is acknowledged as safe and effective in fighting cavities.

Remineralization is the term used to describe the process in your body that uses fluoride to repair damage caused by decay. Fluoride is absorbed into teeth and bones, making them stronger and more resistant to fractures and decay.

The fluoride treatments you receive in a dental office have more fluoride than over-the-counter fluoride mouthwash or toothpaste. They are used for both children and adults. Dental-office treatments also are different chemically and stay on the teeth longer.

There are two common types of professionally applied fluorides. Acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) is acidic; neutral sodium fluoride is not. Neutral sodium fluoride usually is used for people who have dry mouth (xerostomia) or who have tooth-colored fillings, crowns, or bridges. An acidic fluoride may irritate a mouth that is dry. It can also create small pits in composite fillings.

Fluoride is applied as a gel, foam or varnish during a dental appointment. The teeth are dried so the fluoride doesn’t become diluted. Fluoride can be applied by using a tray that looks like a mouth guard for one to four minutes. Fluoride can also be painted directly on the teeth. It comes in a variety of flavors, but it should never be swallowed.

Fluoride supplements are usually used in children who are not exposed to a fluoridated water source. They are taken in small quantities. The daily dose ranges from 0.25 to 1 milligram. The amount is based on the child’s age and the amount of fluoride in the water he or she drinks. St. Lucie County water is fluoridated, but some areas of Martin County are not.

Dentists do not prescribe more than 264 milligrams of fluoride tablets at a time. That’s because the toxic dose of fluoride for a 2-year-old child weighing 22 pounds is 320 milligrams. To avoid any chance of overdose, do not stock up on fluoride tablets. If you have any questions regarding fluoride risks, talk to your dentist or physician.

Everyone should use fluoridated toothpaste. Be careful with young children. They are more likely to swallow the toothpaste than to spit it out. Use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste when they brush. Encourage them to spit out as much as possible. Avoid flavored toothpastes that may encourage swallowing.

At All Smiles Family Dentist in Palm Beach Gardens, we understand that some patients prefer a more holistic, fluoride-free approach to their dental care. That’s why we offer fluoride-free cleanings and preventive treatments designed to support your oral health without the use of fluoride-based products. Using gentle techniques and alternative materials, our team helps you maintain a clean, healthy smile while respecting your personal health preferences. Fluoride-free dentistry provides the same thorough care you expect—focused on prevention, comfort, and long-term wellness.