Fluoride Varnish

Fluoride varnish is a highly concentrated form of fluoride that is painted directly onto the surfaces of the teeth. It sets quickly on contact with saliva, forming a temporary coating that allows the fluoride to be absorbed into the enamel over several hours. The application takes just a few minutes and is painless, making it ideal for patients of all ages, including young children.

The primary purpose of fluoride varnish is to strengthen enamel and help prevent cavities. It works by promoting remineralization, the process where minerals are deposited back into enamel that has been weakened by acid attacks. For patients who already have early signs of decay (white spot lesions), fluoride varnish can help arrest the process before a cavity fully forms. It is also effective at reducing tooth sensitivity by blocking the tiny tubules in exposed dentin.

For dental practices, fluoride varnish is a straightforward addition to hygiene visits that benefits patients and adds to production. It is recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) for children as soon as their first tooth erupts and for adults who are at moderate to high risk for cavities. Insurance typically covers fluoride for children, and some plans cover it for adults as well. Having a consistent protocol for offering fluoride varnish at every applicable hygiene visit ensures that no patient falls through the cracks.