Fluoride

Fluoride is a completely natural mineral and is commonly used as a varnish for teeth as a form of protection against cavities and other complications. Inexpensive and completely safe, fluoride is incredibly effective in protecting your child’s teeth. Cavities and other complications are unwanted and fluoride is the best way to ensure your child has their perfect smile!

What is Fluoride Varnish?

Fluoride varnish is a treatment used to protect your child’s teeth from cavities and tooth decay, or slowing and stopping tooth decay after it has occurred. The varnish can also strengthen the tooth enamel to keep the teeth healthy and strong. While fluoride varnish cannot altogether prevent cavities, as this depends on your child’s brushing and flossing habits, it can greatly reduce the risk of your child developing any cavities or tooth decay. At Advanced Dental Bronx – Children's Dentist, we recommend your child maintaining a regular brushing and flossing routine, as well as attending regular dental check-up appointments, and maintaining a healthy diet in order for the fluoride varnish to be as effective as possible.

Is Fluoride Varnish Safe?

Fluoride varnish is used by dentists and doctors around the world as one of the most safe and effective treatments of preventing cavities and tooth decay. During the treatment process, only a small amount of the fluoride varnish is used and the varnish is quickly applied and hardens shortly after. Fluoride varnish offers hardly any side effects, certain varnishes may cause the teeth to look yellow for a short period of time, which results in the varnish to be the best and most effective ways to protect your child’s teeth. At Advanced Dental Bronx – Children's Dentist, our specialists are able to give your child the ultimate form of protection, to ensure your child gets the bright and healthy smile they deserve!

How is Fluoride Varnish Put on the Teeth?

When your child comes in for their treatment at Advanced Dental Bronx – Children's Dentist, our specialists will paint the top and sides of each tooth with the varnish using a special brush. Initially, the varnish feels a bit sticky although it hardens on contact with saliva. As the varnish is painted on, your child may be able to feel the hardened varnish on their teeth but will not be able to lick it off. Our specialists will ensure your child has a comfortable and relaxed experience at our office, and leave with a perfect smile.

How Do I Care for My Child's Teeth After Fluoride Varnish is Applied?

While it is recommended that you speak with your child’s doctor for any special instructions on caring for your child’s fluoride varnish, our team at Advanced Dental Bronx – Children’s Dentist has provided a short list of recommended guidelines: It is okay for your child to eat and drink after the varnish is applied, but it is not recommended to give then any hot foods or liquids. Room temperature or cold foods and liquids are okay for your child to have after their treatment. Your child should not brush or floss their teeth for 4 to 6 hours after their treatment. It is recommended to tell your child to spit when rinsing, if they know how to spit.