What is Fluoride Varnish?
The role of fluoride varnish is very important for children as it improves the quality of dental enamel in their developing teeth, making their new teeth more resistant to decay. Fluoride varnish is topically applied and brushed onto all sides of your child’s teeth. It is a safe and painless procedure and takes just a couple of minutes to apply from start to finish.
Once applied and in contact with your child’s saliva, the fluoride hardens. The fluoride component is now absorbed into the dental enamel and begins strengthening the teeth.
It is non-invasive and painless. Most children enjoy the taste.
What is the Best Time for Flouride Treatment?
Your Blue Coral Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics dentist may recommend your child start receiving fluoride varnish treatments as soon as the eruption of their first primary tooth. In some cases even earlier depending on your child’s needs. This proactive approach to fluoride application can play a big role in stopping the later development of cavities.
As your child grows, it is necessary for good oral habits and a healthy nutritious diet, as it is not uncommon for demineralization to occur in premolars and molars. These teeth, in the back of the mouth, have pits and grooves that easily trap food particles and bacteria. This can also happen along the gum line, resulting in plaque accumulations that can wear away at the tooth enamel. Helping your child to brush and floss correctly as well as consuming foods and beverages that help their teeth will help the fight against tooth decay.
