A fluoride treatment is a quick and painless procedure where a concentrated form of fluoride is applied directly to the surface of your child’s teeth. This mineral-rich coating strengthens enamel, helps reverse early signs of decay, and protects against cavity-causing bacteria.
The treatment typically comes in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish, and is applied in just a few minutes during your child’s routine dental check-up.
Children are particularly vulnerable to tooth decay for several reasons:
Their enamel is thinner and less mineralised than adult teeth
They may not brush effectively or consistently
They often consume sugary snacks or drinks
Their teeth are still growing and forming
Fluoride helps by remineralising weakened enamel, slowing down bacterial activity, and preventing future cavities — even in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
Fluoride treatments are beneficial for most children, especially:
Those aged 6 months to 16 years
Children with a history of cavities
Kids who wear braces or have difficulty cleaning their teeth
Those who consume non-fluoridated bottled water
Children with deep grooves in molars
At York House Dental Practice, we personalise fluoride recommendations based on your child’s unique risk of decay, dental development, and home care routine.
Fluoride treatment is one of the quickest and easiest ways to protect your child’s teeth — no drilling, needles, or discomfort involved.
Cleaning the Teeth: We start by gently cleaning your child’s teeth to remove any plaque or food debris.
Application of Fluoride: The fluoride solution (usually a varnish or gel) is brushed or painted onto each tooth.
Setting Time: The treatment sets quickly — usually within 1–4 minutes. Your child can sit comfortably during this time.
Aftercare Advice: We’ll share simple instructions about eating and drinking afterwards (see below).
The entire process takes only a few minutes and is often completed at the end of a routine check-up.
After a fluoride treatment, your child can resume normal activities almost immediately. However, for best results:
Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after treatment
Soft foods only for the next 4–6 hours, especially if a varnish was applied
Avoid brushing or flossing for at least 4–6 hours, or as advised by the dentist
Fluoride treatments are typically recommended twice a year, but your child’s needs may vary based on their oral health and risk of decay.
Strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid
Reverses early signs of tooth decay before a cavity forms
Reduces cavity risk by up to 40% when combined with good oral hygiene
Safe and effective – approved by dental associations worldwide
Quick, comfortable and non-invasive treatment
Supports long-term oral health as your child’s adult teeth come in
Yes. When administered professionally and in the right amount, fluoride is completely safe for children. Our dentists at York House Dental Practice use clinically approved concentrations, ensuring your child gets all the benefits without any risk of overexposure.
We always tailor treatments based on your child’s age, weight, oral health, and fluoride exposure at home (toothpaste, water, etc.).
At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, we are proud to be a trusted local provider of gentle, family-friendly dental care. Our experienced team understands how to make children feel at ease and how to build healthy dental habits that last a lifetime.
What you can expect from us:
Friendly, patient-centred approach for children of all ages
Experienced paediatric dentists and dental therapists
Honest advice and tailored preventive care plans
Calming environment designed to reduce dental anxiety
Convenient appointments and family scheduling options
We don’t just treat teeth — we help raise confident, happy smiles.
Protect your child’s smile before cavities start. Schedule a fluoride treatment as part of your child’s next dental visit at York House Dental Practice.
Call us at 019323 48864 or use our online booking system to schedule your appointment.
