Saturday 28 September 2013

Fluoride Application

Research shows that fluoride application either in the form of varnish ,foam or  gel helps in reducing tooth decay  if applied every 6-monthly.

What is Fluoride Application?
 Fluoride application is application of fluoride either in the form of varnish(a pale yellow liquid) or foam(white frothy liquid) which provides extra protection from tooth decay when used alongside of tooth brushing. Fluoride varnish is a pale yellow gel that sets quickly when applied to children’s teeth using a soft brush. While foam which is white frothy liquid which is applied to the teeth with the help of a tray  as shown above.The varnish as well the foam sets quickly, has a pleasant taste and a fruity smell.
Scientific studies have shown that fluoride application gives added protection to teeth against decay when used in addition to brushing teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste.

Dental service

Your child should be offered fluoride varnish application twice a year by a qualified dentist from the age of two.
Some children will not have fluoride varnish applied because they have a medical history of allergies (specifically elastoplast) or have previously been hospitalised due to asthma or allergies. If this is the case for your child, a full individual risk assessment will be carried out by your dentist and a decision taken on whether it is clinically appropriate for fluoride varnish to be applied.

On the day of application

Fluoride varnish won’t be applied if your child has sore areas in their mouth.
Some children may be taking fluoride drops or tablets. These should not be taken for two days after the fluoride application, after that continue as directed.


Are there any risk?

There is no risk as such.However the dentist will ask the child not to swallow the foam or gel. If swallwed over a long time the teeth may develop white spots.

Instructions after application.

The varnish or foam that is applied on the teeth should remain on the teeth for the rest of the day and preferably even during bedtime to provide maximum benefit.

Please make sure
  • the child only eats soft food for the rest of the day
  • the children do not brush their teeth that evening but from the next day with a fluoride toothpaste.

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