Fluoride treatment is one of the most effective and simple ways to help protect your child’s smile from cavities. Our compassionate dentist and team may recommend fluoride treatment in Arleta, California, during your child’s routine visit based on their risk of tooth decay. Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, many foods and dental products like toothpaste. While everyday exposure to fluoride is beneficial, professional applications provide a more concentrated level of protection that strengthens the enamel and helps defend developing teeth.
How Fluoride Protects Your Child’s Teeth
Each time your child eats or drinks, acids and bacteria can build up in their mouth and begin breaking down the protective layer of their teeth, known as enamel. This process, called demineralization, makes the teeth vulnerable to decay. Fluoride counteracts this damage by remineralizing the enamel, which helps repair early signs of tooth erosion and prevents cavities from forming. It also plays an important role during tooth development, hardening the enamel before it emerges and making teeth more resistant to decay throughout your child’s life.
What to Expect During a Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment is a quick, painless procedure that takes only a few minutes during a standard dental visit. After assessing your child’s oral health, our experienced dentist will determine whether additional fluoride is necessary. If recommended, fluoride may be applied in the form of a varnish, gel or foam. It is simply brushed or placed onto your child’s teeth and left for a short period to absorb into the enamel. Your child will need to avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes afterward to allow the fluoride to fully take effect.
Why Fluoride Is Especially Important for Children
Children are at higher risk for cavities because their brushing habits are still developing and their enamel is not as strong as that of adults. Regular fluoride treatment provides added protection during these crucial years of oral development. It supports healthier teeth and can reduce the need for more complex procedures such as fillings, crowns or extractions in the future. In combination with a healthy diet, daily brushing and flossing and routine dental visits, fluoride treatment plays a vital role in preventing dental problems before they start.
If you would like to learn more about how pediatric fluoride treatment in Arleta, CA, can protect your child’s smile, we invite you to call United Family Dental Group at 818-899-9999 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Simon Imanuel. Our caring dentist and team are here to provide excellent preventive care and help your child build strong, healthy habits for life.