Fluoride Varnish Treatment- What is it?
It’s important for children to have good dental habits early on. These habits may include having healthy teeth and healthy gums. It should not be a shock that your dentist will mention the importance of good oral hygiene practices even before your child’s first tooth comes in. It is not uncommon for dentists to encourage the use of fluoride varnish treatments. Fluoride varnish treatments are given to children two to four times a year and these are used to keep cavities away from children.
In the United States, many pediatricians can give this treatment to children. However, parents must try to ensure that their children get this treatment from a registered dentist. We will explain everything there is to know about fluoride varnish throughout this article.
Fluoride Varnish: Explained
Fluoride varnish is a dental treatment given to children to protect their teeth from cavities. The treatment not only prevents cavities but can also be used to slow down a cavity from increasing in size.
As the name suggests, fluoride varnish consists of fluoride, which is known to make the tooth enamel stronger. However, parents must be informed by dentists and pediatricians that fluoride treatment alone cannot do much, these treatments are most effective when combined with healthy oral habits, such as regular brushing and flossing, consuming a healthy diet, steering clear of highly sugary foods, regular use of fluoride toothpaste.
Though the use of fluoride varnish has increased over the years, many parents still worry if fluoride varnish is safe. They must know that fluoride varnish is absolutely safe. The procedure is carried out in such a way that the children do not get any time to swallow the fluoride varnish. Further, dentists ask children to brush their teeth 4 to 12 hours after applying varnish. Parents must be informed that sometimes after the varnish is applied, teeth become yellow or dull. However, parents need not worry as the color of the teeth will return to normal after brushing.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your child’s dentist will use a small brush to apply the fluoride varnish on the sides and top of a tooth. Fluoride varnish is quite sticky in texture but its texture changes as soon as the varnish comes in contact with the saliva. On coming in contact with the saliva, the varnish becomes hard so much so that it will be impossible for your child to lick the varnish or swallow it.
The procedure of applying fluoride varnish is pain-free and simple. If you prefer to comfort your child during the procedure, just ask your dentist if you can hold your child in your lap while the dentist is applying the fluoride varnish.
The day your child is given the fluoride varnish treatment, you will be responsible for a few things. Here are some things to remember!
- The fluoride varnish must stay on your child’s teeth for 4 to 6 hours. Therefore, do not brush or floss for 4 to 6 hours after varnish application. If possible, let your child brush and floss the next day.
- Though your child can eat right after the procedure, you must try and give them soft foods or hot or cold liquids.
In Closing
While fluoride varnish treatment is quite effective in preventing and treating cavities, one must understand that this process works when combined with good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, consuming a good diet, etc. So, remember to teach your child the importance of these things.
For more information regarding your dental health, please give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!