Fluoride in Dental Products and Varnish
Fluoride is an important building block for tooth enamel that helps keep teeth strong and resistant to cavities and is added to dental products to improve dental health.
Many of the benefits can be achieved topically. There are multiple ways to increase fluoride protection: topical (toothpaste, mouthwash, and varnish) and systemic applications (tablets and water).
Toothpaste & Mouth Rinses
- Use a toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride. Always choose a toothpaste with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which is a designation given to products with the recommended concentration of fluoride.
- Brush twice a day or as directed by your dentist and physician.
- Use the correct amount of fluoride toothpaste for your child’s age. Children younger than 3 years use no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice. For children 3 to 6 years old, use no more than a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Swallowing of toothpaste and other dental products with fluoride increases the risk of fluorosis.
Fluoride Varnish
Tooth decay is one of the most common preventable diseases in children. Fluoride varnish is safe, helps strengthen teeth, and provides extra protection against cavities. Children who are at risk for dental decay or do not live in a community with fluoridated water greatly benefit from the application of fluoride varnish to their teeth.
What is fluoride varnish?
Fluoride varnish is a sticky resin of highly concentrated fluoride which is applied to the tooth’s surface to prevent tooth decay. Varnish strengthens enamel and can prevent the progression of tooth decay or white spots.
How is it applied?
Fluoride varnish can be applied by your dentist, hygienist, or school oral health program staff. Applying fluoride varnish is simple and only takes a few minutes to apply. A thin layer of varnish is painted on the teeth with a small brush. The sticky coating dries quickly and hardens once it comes in contact with saliva.
Water is safe to drink after application.
How long does fluoride varnish last?
The benefits of fluoride varnish can last several months. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends fluoride varnish be reapplied 3 to 5 times per year for the best protection.
Ask your dentist about dental sealants. Fluoride varnish can be done for both children and adults.
Fluoride Supplements
Fluoride supplements can offer protection against tooth decay for infants, children and adults who are at high risk for tooth decay and whose primary drinking water has low fluoride concentrations. Fluoride supplements such as lozenges, tablets and drops are available by prescription only. Talk to your dentist or healthcare provider about your child's specific fluoride needs.
