FLUORIDE VARNISH: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IT?
In simple words, fluoride varnish is a dental treatment for teeth decay or cavity. As a result of this tooth cavity or decay can be stopped and can be reversed at the early stage. This teeth therapy is provided by experts and professionals who have adequate and accurate knowledge about it. Studies show that fluoride varnish can be applied four times a year in every 3-4 months. The doctors have proved that children who use it in every 3-4 months carry a fewer risk of cavity and decay than those who don’t do it at all.
WHAT IS DENTAL FLUORIDE VARNISH?
In detail, a fluoride varnish is a form of fluoride, and it is applied to the surface region, enamel, and cementum of the tooth. The dentists or pediatricians provide this fluoride therapy. The core purpose of this therapy is to protect the enamel and the surface of the teeth from the unhealthy consumption and bacteria.
HOW FLUORIDE VARNISH HELPS CHILDREN?
Fluoride varnish leads to healthy gums and teeth. Usually, parents are recommended this treatment by the care providers for their child even before the first teeth begin to erupt or while the child starts teething. It is a medical fact that parents should start offering this treatment when the baby is 4-6 months old until the child turns six years.
FLUORIDE VARNISH IS NOT THE ONLY WAY TO AVOID DECAY!
The fact is fluoride varnish is a beneficial and robust treatment for decay and cavities. But at the same time, parents should be responsible and knowledgeable enough towards their children and should maintain good dental habits such as flossing and brushing twice a day in the morning and before going to bed for at least 2-4 minutes. Every 1-2 months, the brush should be replaced, and the child must visit the dentist every 2-3 months or even more often when it is required. Overconsumption of starchy food and milk products should be avoided as it can cause gum disease, tissue infection, and tooth decay.
HOW IS SAFE THE TREATMENT OF FLUORIDE VARNISH?
This fluoride treatment is safe. During this therapy, the priority is treatment seeker’s safety and health, and that is why this can only be practiced by the doctors who are trained and skillful. The application of fluoride should be done with proper attention and very gently. Considering one’s safety, the application is made with a minor and smooth brush. The application of fluoride varnish should be made in an appropriate and limited quantity.
ADVANTAGES OF FLUORIDE VARNISH TREATMENT:
This treatment prevents decay and cavities but also cures halitosis (bad odor). Fluoride varnish makes teeth appear sparkling white and helps to have a fresh breath. It helps to have good dental health and prevents the risk of teeth falling out or teeth loss, due to which it is practiced across the globe.
DISADVANTAGES OF FLUORIDE VARNISH TREATMENT:
Like any other therapy, this therapy also carries a few drawbacks. If the usage of this is less our more than the adequate quantity, the results may not turn out positively or even turn out negatively, which could lead to surgery. If the application of fluoride varnish is not made with a minor and soft brush, it can cause harm to tissues, gums, enamel, and cementum or dentine.
WHAT TO AVOID AFTER APPLICATION OF FLUORIDE VARNISH
Besides the instructions of your dentist or pediatrician, there are few suggestions below.
There is no specific diet to be followed. However, dentists or pediatricians suggest that children must be given soft or liquid food for some hours or a day. It is also recommended that children should only have cold or warm food; too warm should be avoided for some days. Brushing or flossing should be avoided at least for 5-8 hours or even a day. Allow your child to spit the varnish regularly and even while brushing, flossing and having food as swallowing up causes stomach infection, vomiting, etc.