Shelby Township Hygienist Explains Fluoride Varnish
Fluoride varnish is a type of topical fluoride treatment that is used in many dental practices today. It is used to desensitize root surfaces, remineralize tooth surfaces and prevent decay. Its adherent nature and ease of application makes it a great option to use even on a difficult patient such as an uncooperative child or someone with a strong gag reflex. It sets up quickly after it is applied with a small brush and reacts with the saliva.
The teeth need to be free of heavy plaque by brushing the teeth but not necessarily after a professional prophylaxis. Even wiping the teeth with a piece of gauze will suffice if teeth are not heavily coated with plaque. The small amount of fluoride, which is typically a sodium fluoride in a fast drying resin is applied with a brush and will remain in contact for several hours. The longer it is in contact with the teeth the better the results. We ask that you not brush for the remaining of the day for this reason and resume regular teeth brushing and flossing the following day. We even ask that you eat a softer diet for the remainder of the day following the application to aid in the retention of the varnish.
Fluoride varnish is a great alternative to other fluoride treatments where gel or foam is placed into foam trays and sits on the teeth for 1-4 minutes. A small child may swallow this form of fluoride and the gagger who can’t handle the bulky trays. It also comes in many flavors to be appealing to the patient.
Shelby Township Hygienist Explains Fluoride Varnish
Contact The Gentle Dentist for more information or to schedule an appointment.