Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride Treatments in Scottsdale, AZ

At My Scottsdale Dentist, Dr. Steven H. Poulos, DDS, Dr. Erica Elannan, DDS, and Dr. Mike Wassef, DDS, provides advanced preventive care to help patients of all ages maintain strong, healthy smiles. One of the most effective tools for protecting teeth against cavities is fluoride treatment.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in many foods and water sources. It helps strengthen tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay. While most people get some fluoride through their diet or tap water, professional treatments can give you and your family extra protection where it’s needed most.

How Fluoride Protects Your Smile

Fluoride works in two key ways:

Topical Fluoride

Once teeth have erupted, topical fluoride strengthens enamel by penetrating the outer layer of the tooth. This makes the tooth surface more resistant to cavity-causing acids. Topical fluoride can be found in toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels. At My Scottsdale Dentist, our doctors recommend that children receive professional fluoride applications twice a year during routine dental checkups.

Systemic Fluoride

Systemic fluoride works on teeth still developing beneath the gums as well as those that have already erupted. It’s typically absorbed through water, foods, or supplements. For children, fluoride may be prescribed in the form of drops or tablets, depending on age and need. Careful monitoring is important — too much fluoride during tooth development can cause fluorosis (small white spots on teeth).

Who Can Benefit from Fluoride Treatments?

While many patients get some fluoride naturally, professional applications are especially helpful for those at higher risk of cavities. Our Scottsdale dentists may recommend fluoride treatments if you have:

Deep grooves or pits on chewing surfaces of teeth
Exposed or sensitive root surfaces
A history of frequent cavities
Fair to poor oral hygiene habits
A high-sugar or high-carbohydrate diet
Inadequate fluoride exposure in your water supply
Reduced saliva flow due to medications or health conditions

Preventing Tooth Decay for Life

It’s important to remember that fluoride alone isn’t enough to prevent cavities. A complete approach to oral health includes:

Brushing at least twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
Flossing every day
Eating a balanced diet and limiting sugary snacks
Scheduling regular dental cleanings and exams with our team

At My Scottsdale Dentist, our doctors combine years of experience with the latest preventive treatments to help patients enjoy healthy smiles for life.

Protect your teeth from cavities and strengthen your enamel with safe, effective fluoride treatments. Call My Scottsdale Dentist at (480) 614-1122 to schedule your next preventive care visit with Dr. Poulos, Dr. Elannan, or Dr. Wassef.

Fluoride Treatments