Fluoride Varnish – Denver, CO

Why Choose Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry for Fluoride Varnish?

• Experienced, friendly pediatric dentist in Denver
• Focus on your child’s long-term oral health
• Quick and comfortable treatment

What Is Fluoride Varnish?

Fluoride varnish is a type of topical fluoride treatment that is applied to a child’s teeth using a small brush. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to fortify the teeth. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, professionally-applied fluoride treatments are effective at preventing a loss of minerals found in tooth enamel and encourages remineralization in teeth that are already experiencing early signs of cavity formation.

There has been some buzz on the internet in recent years about the so-called dangers of dental fluoride. Some experts argue that fluoride toxicity, which is a heightened level of fluoride in the body due to overconsumption, is a possibility, causing parents to question its safety and necessity. However, the reality is that when used in proper amounts, it is not only safe but beneficial to a child’s teeth.

Researchers who published a study on topical fluoride and its effect on preventing dental caries in The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) discovered clinical evidence favors a 2.26% fluoride varnish being applied every 3-6 months in children under the age of 6. This same amount can also be applied to children and teenagers ages 6-18.  

Benefits of Fluoride Varnish

Benefits of fluoride varnish include:

• It promotes enamel remineralization (meaning that it helps to replenish tiny bits of enamel that get worn away through everyday wear and tear).
• It makes the enamel more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria-filled dental plaque.
• It can hinder bacterial metabolism in the mouth, causing oral bacteria to produce lower amounts of harmful acid and minimize the number of acid attacks that are known to break down tooth enamel.
• The treatment is painless and noninvasive. Most children even like the way it tastes!
• Your child’s teeth won’t need any special care after the varnish is applied. It is recommended that patients wait 30 minutes after application to eat or drink after they leave our office.

When Is the Best Time for Fluoride Varnish?

We may recommend that your child start receiving fluoride varnish treatments as soon as their first primary tooth erupts. This proactive approach to fluoride application can play a big role in stopping the later development of cavities.

There are many reasons why fluoride is beneficial to a child’s growing smile. Children often possess some of the most common risk factors, which is why we invite you to discuss these with Dr. Bowman and his team so the proper treatment plan can be created to better prevent childhood dental caries. These risk factors can include:

• A history of previous cavities
• A diet high in sugar and/or carbohydrates
• Your child is learning how to brush and floss their teeth correctly
• They are wearing an orthodontic appliance
• Your child is suffering from a medical condition that requires medications that can dry out their mouth and result in decreased saliva production.

You will discover that as your child grows, the necessity for good oral habits and a healthy and nutritious diet are crucial, especially since it is not uncommon for demineralization to occur in the premolars and molars. These teeth, which live in the back of the mouth, possess pits and grooves that can easily trap food particles and bacteria as well as along the gum line, resulting in plaque accumulations that can wear away at the tooth enamel. Helping and encouraging your child to brush and floss correctly as well as consume foods and beverages that help (not hinder) their teeth will prove to be a positive move in the fight against tooth decay.

Combining your efforts at home with regular application of the varnish at each of your child’s six-month preventive visits will enable your child to reap the many benefits that only fluoride can provide.

Would you like to learn more about fluoride varnish or the other preventive services we offer? Contact us to request an appointment or talk to a member of our professional, friendly team. We look forward to safeguarding your child’s precious smile!