How Much Does Fluoride Treatment Cost?

If you have had issues with tooth decay in the past, or are at increased risk for tooth decay, your dentist may recommend you try a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps your protect your teeth against tooth decay. The treatment can help stop or even reverse the tooth decaying process. In general, dentists recommend fluoride treatment about once every six months. If you have recently been told you may benefit from fluoride treatment you may be wondering what kind of costs you can expect to pay. Below is more information on how fluoride works and the typical costs of the treatment.

How Fluoride Treatment Works

The everyday bacteria that develops in our mouth from food and beverages creates acid that breaks down the minerals in the tooth’s enamel. This enamel is what keeps your teeth strong and healthy. A fluoride treatment can help replace the minerals on the tooth’s surface. The treatment works through the application of a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish being applied directly to the teeth. At some dental offices, fluoride treatment is a part of a routine dental exam and cleaning. If they choose to use a varnish, your dentist will paint it onto your teeth, while a gel is typically applied with a mouth guard.

You may be surprised to hear that you may already live in a community where you are exposed to routine fluoride treatment. In the United States, the water in most urban communities if fluoridated, meaning it has small traces of fluoride in it. This was a preventive public health measure taken to improve the oral health of the US population. This service costs Americans about $1 per year, but it is estimated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that it saves every American at least $15 -$20 per year in the costs of dental care.

The Costs of Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatments usually cost somewhere between $20 -$50. To promote good oral health and prevention practices, some dental insurance policies cover the costs of fluoride treatments. Lower cost options to try include mouthwash or toothpaste with fluoride, which are made by most popular brands.  These popular brands, including Crest and Colgate, often offer online coupons for their fluoride products.

An alternative option is a home fluoride kit. Your dentist may recommend routine treatments at home for more serious cases. In-home treatments can be used over a several week or month period. The in-home fluoride kit will require mouth trays for the application process. These trays can be purchased in bulk in a package of 50-100 for approximately $7-40.

Is it Worth the Extra Cost?

It may seem like an extra cost to get a natural treatment that adds minerals to your enamel. In reality, regular fluoride treatments are less expensive than waiting for a cavity to form and covering the costs of tooth decay. A simple filling can cost $50-$450 or more per tooth and may need to be repaired several times throughout your life.

More information on Fluoride Treatments : Fluoride Treatment for Children