Flouride varnish
To help prevent tooth decay, your child now may have fluoride varnish applied to his or her teeth by a medical provider. Previously, this service was only available from the office of a licensed dentist.
The service is primarily intended for children up to age three, but it’s allowed for children up to age 21 if the member doesn’t have access to a dentist. The younger the child is when the varnish is applied, the better—usually as soon as the front teeth begin to show in the mouth at around 6 months. If neglected, tooth decay results in cavities, pain and infection that can lead to serious illness.
Fluoride varnish is a simple, painless procedure that helps protects your child’s teeth against decay. It has many advantages:
- Varnish now comes in child-friendly flavors and is easily tolerated, especially by infants, toddlers and developmentally disabled children.
- Providers find fluoride varnish easy to use and fast to apply. It can be swabbed directly on the teeth and doesn’t require the use of dental instruments.
- Fluoride varnish is safe and poses less risk of an adverse reaction.
Fluoride varnish is not a substitute for fluoridated water or toothpaste, but provides an added benefit for children. If your child has not seen a dentist for this varnish, ask your doctor about fluoride varnish during your child’s next visit.
The procedure can be done at your medical provider’s office, clinic or other community-based setting by other properly trained medical professionals such as physicians assistants, nurse practitioners and registered nurses.