At Home Fluoride Treatments

November 20, 2013

A wonderful way to supplement your yearly dental professional fluoride treatment is with at home fluoride treatments. There are several different options, and we recommend different options to different people depending on their age, habits, and risk for tooth decay.


Over the counter fluoride treatments

Our number one recommendation for over the counter fluoride treatment is a using a fluoride toothpaste. Using a fluoride toothpaste twice a day to clean your teeth allows the fluoride to be available to help strengthen and protect against cavities.



You can also use fluoride mouthwash, such as A.C.T. rinse, in conjunction with your routine brushing and flossing. This mouthwash can be used once a day. As the fluoride is not applied directly to your teeth, as it is with an in-office fluoride varnish treatment, eating and drinking isn’t recommended for 30 minutes after you use the mouthwash.


Using over the counter options to supplement your professional fluoride treatments helps maintain a level of bio available fluoride in your mouth year round.


Make sure you are supervising young children with over the counter fluoride products to ensure they don’t ingest any. The ADA does not recommend using fluoride toothpaste for children under the age of 2 or fluoride mouthwash for children under the age of 6. These children are at a greater risk of ingesting the products.


Prescription fluoride treatments

Over the counter fluoride treatments provide anywhere from 0.05% sodium fluoride to 0.12% sodium fluoride. For patients who are at a higher risk for caries, there are products available by prescription with higher concentrations of fluoride.

  • Prevident toothpaste and mouth rinses have a higher concentration of fluoride and can be prescribed by your dentist.
  • Clinpro 5000 toothpaste has both a higher concentration of fluoride, as well as Tri-Calcium Phosphate. Your tooth enamel is made of crystalized calcium phosphate, so the Tri-Calcium Phosphate works with the fluoride to remineralize your teeth and reverse white spots.
  • MI PastePlus is a paste that you rub on your teeth twice a day. It contains fluoride as well as Recaldent. Recaldent contains casein phosphopeptite and calcium phosphate which helps remineralize your teeth and reverse white spots.


Prescription strength fluoride treatments should be used in conjunction with your regular oral hygiene routine to provide the best benefit. If you are using a prescription strength fluoride toothpaste, our doctors recommend using it as a replacement for your regular toothpaste before bed.


As of yet there is no fool proof product to protect against dental caries, but with a comprehensive at home fluoride program you can help to strengthen and protect your teeth. If your at home care doesn’t seem to be enough, talk to our Evanston dentists to find out what other options are available to help keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

The post At Home Fluoride Treatments appeared first on Stephens Dentistry.

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
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