Going to the dentist isn't any fun, but it is one of those things that just has to be done. For years, I fought the process and didn't go for my regular cleanings and in the end, it sure didn't pay to do so. I ended up spending ten times as much time in the chair and a boat-load of money in dental repairs. If you don't like going to the dentist, you can make it easier on yourself. This blog will show you a few tips that can help you improve the experience and get through the treatment without as much discomfort.
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4 Things To Know When Your Child Needs A Fluoride Varnish
Jordan Arnold
If you've recently taken your child to see a pediatric dentist for the first time, then you might not expect them to need any treatment at this early age. However, your dentist might recommend that your child has fluoride varnish treatments.
If this is your first child, or if your older children haven't had varnishes, then you won't know much about this process. Read on to learn more.
1. Fluoride Varnishes Protect Your Child's Teeth
Fluoride plays a vital role in dental health. It strengthens teeth and prevents problems with decay. In some cases, dentists use a fluoride varnish to boost the health and strength of a child's teeth.
These varnishes paint a small amount of fluoride onto the surface of your child's teeth. They strengthen enamel and help prevent potential problems with decay. In some cases, they also slow the development of early decay or even fix it.
While some children have varnishes because they have a specific problem, this treatment is often preventive. Your dentist might simply use varnishes to protect your child's teeth from future damage.
2. Fluoride Varnishes Don't Replace Regular Dental Care
While fluoride varnishes make teeth stronger and more resilient, they don't replace your child's regular oral health routine. Extra fluoride is not a replacement for brushing and flossing. Your child should also still eat a tooth-friendly diet.
3. Fluoride Varnishes Don't Last Forever
Teeth quickly absorb a varnish and its fluoride content. The fluoride then starts to strengthen enamel and build a protective barrier. However, this protection doesn't last forever. This extra fluoride doesn't stay in the teeth permanently; it is used up and will eventually need to be replenished.
So, your child is likely to need regular treatments to keep their fluoride levels topped up. If your dentist is using a varnish to fix a specific problem, such as early decay, then your child might only need treatments until your dentist is satisfied that they have fixed the problem. However, many dentists prefer to use this treatment regularly during childhood years.
4. Fluoride Varnishes Don't Hurt
Fluoride varnishing is a fast and painless treatment. Your dentist uses a special brush applicator to coat your child's teeth with the varnish.
While your child might feel a little anxious before their first varnishing treatment, they will soon realize that they have nothing to worry about. In fact, many children like having a varnish. Products usually have pleasant fruity tastes.
If you have any other questions about fluoride varnishing and your child's teeth, talk to your pediatric dentist.
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