An easy, quick, cost-effective method for the prevention of cavities is a protective coating called fluoride varnish that’s applied in the dental office twice a year. In order to help against the battle of tooth decay, we often call it painting the teeth at the end of our patients’ visits and it can be applied to primary (baby) or permanent teeth. By inhibiting the loss of minerals from tooth enamel and killing the bacteria that cause cavities, there have been many studies that show that fluoride varnish can reduce the incidence of cavities by 37-43%. Treating an enamel sensitivity and restoring the strength of enamel that can be temporarily compromised after an intensive cleaning, fluoride treatments also help. Today, we at Smile Reef would like to continue to share the fluoride treatments.
Is Fluoride Treatment at Dentist Office Worth It?
At the end of their routine well care visits after their teeth are cleaned, it is recommended that our patients with a moderate risk of cavities receive an application of fluoride varnish. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association also recommends this treatment. For those at high risk of cavities, it is safe for all of our patients, even as young as one, and is recommended throughout adulthood. Fortunately, today’s in-office fluoride treatment is much easier to work with and takes less time than previous processes, although you may have memories of those bulky foam trays or not-so-yummy rinses from your childhood. We use a very small, soft brush and a simple swipe across all the teeth with the tooth-colored lacquer to apply the tooth-colored varnish at Smile Reef. For a better decay-preventing benefit with a slow release of fluoride, the texture left behind is a bit sticky, but the texture allows the varnish to adhere to the teeth. Since the flavors are quite pleasant and they will not be ingesting unsafe amounts, it is acceptable after treatments for patients to taste the fluoride. There are a handful of fluoride varnish flavors to help them more appealing the kids. Optimally, patients should avoid hot and crunchy foods for a minimum of 4-6 hours so that the varnish is not scraped or melted off.
Other Tips to Keeping Your Teeth Healthy
– Routine care by a Trained Dentist Specializing Young Children
– Ensuring Fluoride Use
– Brushing and Flossing Regularly
– Healthy Eating Habits
Pediatric Dentistry
By 6 months of age, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all infants receive oral health risk assessments. As early as 6 months of age and no later than 6 months after the first tooth erupts or 12 months of age, whichever comes first, infants at higher risk of early dental caries should be referred to a dentist to establish their dental home. By 12 months of age, every child should have a dental home established. When it comes to your child’s dental care in the Las Vegas Valley, schedule your appointment with Smile Reef. We take great care of your little one’s and take all steps necessary to help them feel at ease.
