Adult Fluoride Protocol Recommended by the American Dental Association and River Valley Dental
Adults: A dental patient is considered an adult once they are through their developmental years, (generally after the age of fourteen years old).
Low Caries Risk:
Risk Factors: Good oral hygiene, Healthy gingiva, Good dietary habits, Few existing restorations, No demineralized areas, No areas of new decay
Recommended Treatment:
- Brush with a Fluoridated toothpaste twice per day (in the morning and before bed).
- Brush for at least 2 minutes.
- Flossing is encouraged once per day.
- It is ideal to visit the dentist once every 6 months unless modifications are made to your recall by the dentist or dental hygienist.
- A healthy, low risk patient may choose to implement a fluoride rinse such as ACT once per day as a preventative measure.
- A healthy, low risk patient may choose to implement a professionally applied Fluoride treatment once per year. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist.
High Caries Risk:
Risk Factors: Inadequate water fluoridation as a child, Fair to poor oral hygiene, Gingivitis, Frequent pop drinkers, Active demineralization, Orthodontic Bands or Braces, A number of existing restorations, New decay, Xerostomia, Radiation Treatment to the Head and Neck
Treatment Recommendations: Implement Home Care instructions under Low Caries Risk recommendations.
Fluoride Recommendations:
- Brush 2/day for 2 minutes with Fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss at least once per day.
- Use Fluoride rinse 1-2/day. Ex. ACT Fluoride rinse by Reach.
- Your dentist may recommend a prescription strength Fluoride toothpaste, use as directed.
- Professionally applied Fluoride rinse 1-2/year as recommended by dentist or dental hygienist.
- Focus on ways to reduce risk factors.
See your dentist at least every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist or dental hygienist.