Fluoride Varnish

Why should children have fluoride varnish?

• Fluoride varnish reduces tooth decay in children and adults
• It helps to repair teeth which have started to decay and will stop decay starting in other teeth
• The varnish should be applied at least twice a year
• Applying the varnish is a very simple procedure, it takes just a few minutes and doesn't hurt at all
• Some people think the varnish tastes a little bit like bananas
• A yellow tint is left on teeth for a few days
• To control decay you will still need to keep foods and drinks that contain sugar for mealtimes only and brush twice daily with a family fluoride toothpaste

What should patients do if they are to have flouride varnish?

• Anyone who has been in hospital because of asthma should not have fluoride varnish
• Anyone who has an allergy to colophony should not have fluoride varnish
• Patients should eat and drink as normal before the appointment
• The application is very quick and simple
• The varnish is coloured and will leave a tint on teeth for a day or so
• After the application patients should not eat, drink, brush their teeth or rinse for 30 minutes
• Patients should not eat hard foods for 4 hours after application