Fluoride varnish is a topical treatment applied to teeth by a dentist to boost oral hygiene and prevent cavities. It's made from safe and natural ingredients that can be used by patients of all ages, but it's a more common treatment for young kids due to their increased susceptibility to tooth decay. If you're looking to provide your children with a powerful layer of protection, here's a closer look at this product and how it can supplement your child's dental health.

What Is Fluoride Varnish?

Fluoride is a natural mineral commonly found in rocks, soil, and water, and in addition to being added to most toothpastes, it's often applied directly to tooth enamel to create an extra layer of protection between a child's tooth surface and decay-causing bacteria. When children consume acidic or high-sugar foods, plaque can form on their teeth and begin to eat away at the enamel, causing cavities. 

By adding a protective fluoride coating, you can protect their teeth and prevent irreversible and expensive issues later in life. This alleviates the need for fillings, extractions, implants, and other pricey dental work associated with tooth decay.

Fluoride varnish is a formula with a thicker consistency than typical toothpastes. It's brushed on by a dentist, coating and drying on the enamel to provide protection from bacteria and tooth decay, and is ideal for kids because it's hard to swallow and will be removed through their usual brushing routine after 12 hours or so. Many children like the taste, making it a hassle-free way to improve their oral hygiene.

How Do Professional Applications Differ From Store-Bought Products?

Professional varnish treatments are prescription-strength, making them more effective than standard fluoride formulas. The dosage in these treatments is not meant for repetitive use and should be applied every three months at the most. The potent formula ensures it will protect your child's teeth long-term even though it's brushed away within hours.

Although other types of fluoride applications can be purchased at local grocery and convenience stores, varnish can only be applied by a dentist. These treatments are great for children because they minimize how much is accidentally swallowed, especially if your child is very young and doesn't understand why they need to spit out such a tasty, minty-fresh product.

Trust in Kid Smiles in High Point, NC, for all your children's fluoride and dental cleaning needs. These pediatric dentists provide general dental work, exams, and procedures for children in a friendly, inviting environment. They'll walk your child through everyday habits to improve their oral hygiene and offer the family personal treatment plans at affordable prices. Visit their website to learn more about their dental treatments for kids, or call (336) 885-5437 to make an appointment.