FAQ's on Fluoride Varnish & How it Helps Prevent Tooth Decay

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Using Topical Fluoride Varnishes to Help Prevent Caries

According to the United States National Library of Medicine (NLM), tooth decay is one of the most common disorders affecting American children today, second only to the common cold. The NLM also states that tooth decay is a primary concern for children living in families who are at or below poverty level. (Read "The Sealant Story" >>)

What is fluoride varnish?

Fluoride varnish is a topical fluoride coating that is painted directly on teeth. It is used to prevent cavities and tooth decay as well as helps stops cavities that have already started.

Who benefits from fluoride varnish treatments?

According to an article published by the American Dental Association, fluoride varnish applied every 6 months is effective in preventing caries in children and adolescents.  For preschool children, however, fluoride varnishes are particularly effective due to the fact they take less time and create less discomfort than fluoride gels. However, if a child’s risk of caries is low, they will probably not receive any additional benefits from topical fluoride application.

How Can I Classify Who is at Risk for Caries?

Here is how the American Dental Association assesses who is at risk:

Low caries risk
All ages
No incipient or cavitate primary or secondary carious lesions during the lst three years and no factors that may increase caries risk.*

Moderate caries risk
Younger than 6 years

• No incipient or cavitated primary or secondary carious lesions during the last three years but presence of at least one factor that may increase caries risk*

Older than 6 years

• One or two incipient or cavitated primary or secondary carious lesions in the lst three years.

• No incipient or cavitated primary or secondary lesions in the lsat three yeasr but presence of at least one factor that may increase caries risk.*

High caries risk
Younger than 6 years (any of the following)

• Any incipient or cavitated primary or secondary carious lesion during the last three years

• Presence of multiple factors that may increase caries risk*

• Low socioeconomic status

• Suboptimal fluoride exposure

• Xerostomia (dry mouth)

Older than 6 years (any of the following)

• Three or more incipient or cavitated primary or secondary carious lesions in the last three years

• Presence of multiple factors that may increase caries risk*

• Suboptimal fluoride exposure

• Xerostomia (dry mouth)

*Factors increasing risk of developing caries also may include, but are not limited to:

• High titers of cariogenic bacteria;

• Poor oral hygiene;

• Prolonged nursing (bottle or breast);

• Poor family dental health;

• Developmental or acquired enamel defects;

• Genetic abnormality of teeth;

• Many multisurface restorations;

• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy;

• Eating disorders;

• Drug or alcohol abuse;

• Irregular dental care;

• Cariogenic diet;

• Active orthodontic treatment;

• Presence of exposed root surfaces;

• Restoration overhangs and open margins;

• Physical or mental disability with inability or unavailability of performing proper health care.

Where can I learn more about fluoride varnishes available to me?

School Health carries an FDA approved fluoride varnish that tastes like bubble gum and is non-toxic, gluten-, aspartame- and saccharin-free.

Learn more about Sparkle V Flouride Varnish >>

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