Fluoride Varnish to Protective Teeth and Prevent Decay

Christian, a dental hygienist at 7 Day Dental, is going to discuss fluoride varnish (FV).
Q: What is fluoride varnish?
A: Fluoride varnish is a protective coating on a child’s teeth and it is used to prevent decay.
Q: How is fluoride varnish applied?
A: It is applied with a small brush on all the tooth surfaces.
Q: How does varnish work?
A: Fluoride varnish stays on the teeth longer and it delivers fluoride better than the traditional fluoride trays.
Q: Is fluoride varnish safe?
A: Yes. Once applied to the teeth, it sets immediately on contact with contact with saliva, and the excess is not swallowed.
Q: Why is my dentist using a fluoride varnish?
A: Very young children usually do not see a dentist unless there is a problem, Yet they will see a medical doctor about 11 times for check-ups and shots by the time they are 3 years old. Dental health is an important part of the total health of your child. Because your doctor cares about your child’s health, looking at the teeth and applying fluoride varnish is one way to keep your child healthy.
Q: Is FV healthy for someone with a peanut allergy?
A: Yes, it does not contain any ingredient found in peanuts.
Q: When is FV not used?
A: It is not used when there are sores in the mouth or when there is an allergy to one of the ingredients.
Q: What age group should have a FV applied?
A: FV can be applied to baby teeth, permanent teeth or a mix. There is no age restriction for fluoride varnish.
Q: What is the tricalcium phosphate ingredient in varnish?
A: Calcium and phosphate are naturally found in saliva. They act well with fluoride to protect the teeth from dental acid erosion and decay.
Q: Is the product covered by insurance?
A: Many insurance plans cover fluoride varnish, although some do not. Please check wih your dentist or insurance plan. I do recommend for your child’s health to apply FV regardless of your insurance coverage.
Q: How effective is FV in reducing decay vs. tray or foam gel fluoride?
A: FV is successful in reducing decay up to 75% when applied regularly during dental checkups; versus 37% with tray or foam gel fluorides.
Website: http://www.7daydental.com to learn more.