Fluoride Varnish Application in Schools
Our Smarter Smiles dental care professionals attend primary schools which are at the highest risk of experiencing dental disease to provide the dental professional intervention of applying fluoride varnish on to children’s teeth within the school setting.
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about our fluoride varnish application programme, and if you would like some more information then please contact us at smarter.smiles@nhs.net
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a mineral which is found naturally in many foods and in some water supplies.
How does it benefit our teeth?
It acts on the enamel covering of the teeth to make it stronger and more resistant to tooth decay.
How can I help my child benefit?
Fluoride can be taken in childhood as a supplement, in liquid or tablet form. It is added to most toothpastes and is added to the water supply in some areas of the country. It is also available as a varnish which can only be applied by a dental professional.
Is there any fluoride in our water?
There are traces of fluoride in the water in Cornwall but not enough to benefit our teeth.
What about toothpaste?
The fluoride varnish treatment complements the toothpaste that is applied daily. The varnish contains 22,600 parts per million (ppm) which is higher than in toothpaste.
Is it safe?
Too much fluoride could cause fluorosis (a mottling of the teeth). Fluoride varnish delivers a controlled amount to the tooth.
How does fluoride varnish work?
It is applied to the parts of the teeth which are most exposed to decay causing acid attacks.
What are the benefits of having fluoride varnish?
Research has shown that fluoride varnish treatments are the most effective way to reduce the level of decay in teeth.
How often will this need to be done?
To get the most benefit this should be done twice a year.
How will the fluoride be put on the teeth?
It will be applied by a dental care professional; your child will also have their teeth screened. Everything is done under sterile conditions.
What happens after the application?
To get the maximum benefit you should not eat or drink for half an hour after your treatment and not brush your teeth for at least 4 hours.
Should anyone not have fluoride?
In certain cases, it may not be advisable for severe asthmatics to have fluoride varnish applied as they may be allergic to some of the ingredients, but a complete medical history is taken prior to the application.
