Who still benefits

If two or more of those describe you, professional fluoride is usually worth it. If none do, your toothpaste and Irvine tap water probably cover you.

• Exposed roots from gum recession, which decay faster than enamel
• Dry mouth from medications, which removes the saliva that protects teeth
• A cavity in the last two or three years, or several old fillings with edges that could leak
• Braces or aligners, which trap plaque
• Frequent sipping of coffee, soda, sports drinks or sparkling water
• Cold or sweet sensitivity at the gumline
• A history of radiation to the head or neck

What the treatment is at mend

A concentrated fluoride foam in a soft tray that rests over your teeth for a few minutes after your cleaning. Nothing sticky is left behind, and you wait about 30 minutes to eat or drink. It is much stronger than toothpaste, which is why we use it when risk is elevated rather than for everyone.

For higher-risk adults we may also suggest a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste at home. It costs a little more than regular toothpaste and does a lot more for exposed roots.

Who can skip it

Healthy gums with no recession, normal saliva, no cavities in years, and no heavy sipping habit. I will tell you if that is you. Recommending fluoride to someone who does not need it is a small upsell, and small upsells are still upsells.

How it fits a checkup

Frank cleans, measures your gums, and notes recession and dry mouth. If risk is up, fluoride goes on right after the cleaning. Most PPO plans cover adult fluoride when cavity risk is documented; we verify and tell you the cost before anything optional starts.