You have a few options when it comes to fluoride treatments. Topical fluoride products are applied directly to the teeth, and they include toothpaste, mouth rinses and professional fluoride treatments in your dental practice. Although they are only in the mouth for a short time, topical fluoride treatments cause fluoride levels in the mouth to remain higher for several hours after use.
As long as you have healthy teeth to begin with, the combination of fluoridated drinking water and fluoride toothpaste is likely sufficient for your daily routine. If your tap water isn't fluoridated, or if you drink bottled water that doesn't contain fluoride, your dentist may recommend in-practice fluoride treatments to make sure you're getting the protection you need.
Professional fluoride treatments are applied as a gel, foam or varnish. The fluoride used for these treatments has a higher strength than prescription or over-the-counter mouthwashes or toothpastes and should only be applied by a professional.