Fluoride Varnish

What is fluoride varnish?

Fluoride is a highly effective treatment that reinforces tooth enamel, the protective outer coating, strengthening our teeth and reducing the risk of decay.

Fluoride varnish is the professional application of fluoride directly to the teeth. The agent used during a fluoride varnish treatment contains a higher concentration of fluoride than tap water or toothpaste.

Your dentist will apply a gel onto the tooth which hardens upon contact with saliva, leaving behind a tough layer of varnish on the teeth. During this time, the teeth absorb the fluoride, which strengthens them for several months or more.

Do I need fluoride varnish treatment?

Fluoride varnish is a preventative measure which can help many patients, although some may benefit more than others, including:

• Children who experience unusually high levels of tooth decay.
• Adults who experience unusually high levels of tooth decay.
• Adults who suffer from dry mouth.

How effective is fluoride varnish?

Fluoride varnish often has a far greater effect than other topical applications of fluoride such as toothpaste, mouthwashes, and tap water. It can significantly reduce the risk and effects of decay forming on the teeth, as well as the development of cavities.

Is fluoride varnish safe for my children and me?

The treatment is completely safe and is a common practice used around the world. A small amount of the solution sticks to the teeth, and it is harmless when swallowed. Although fluoride is known to be toxic in large amounts, this does not apply to fluoride varnish treatment applied by a qualified dentist in a controlled environment.

What should I expect during fluoride varnish treatment?

Your dentist will apply the fluoride varnish with a small brush. The varnish will feel sticky to start with, but it will quickly set as a hard layer. The treatment may give the teeth a dull, yellowish look at first, but this will go away once the varnish has been in place for the required amount of time and you can brush your teeth again.

The solution is pleasant-tasting, and there is no discomfort involved in the treatment. We strive to make our dental practice as inviting as possible and have a great deal of experience treating children. We will do our best to make visiting the dentist fun and exciting for your child.

How will I feel after the treatment?

You may feel the texture of the varnish on your teeth, but this is entirely normal. You can eat and drink after the treatment, but it is best to avoid hot foods. Your dentist will advise you as to when you can brush the varnish away, which is typically several hours after the treatment or, in some cases, the next morning.

How often should I get fluoride varnish?

Your dentist may make a recommendation based on the condition of your teeth.

It is important to remember that, as a preventative treatment, fluoride varnish treatments may prevent the need for more dental work later in life. We typically advise that children receive a fluoride varnish treatment around four times a year.

At Platinum Dental Care, we use modern dental techniques and take an active approach to ensure that patients of all ages feel comfortable and enjoy their visits to the dentist.