Prevent cavities early: integrate fluoride varnish at well-child visits

Integrating fluoride varnish in routine exams

Offering fluoride varnish during routine exams ensures young patients receive crucial oral healthcare, even if they do not have regular dental appointments. This procedure is safe and simple and minimizes ingestion risk compared to traditional gels. It can be seamlessly integrated into your practice, providing an opportunity to engage with parents about best oral hygiene practices and enhance overall oral health awareness.

The prevalence of tooth decay

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States. To combat this issue, we recommend integrating fluoride varnish applications during well‑child visits for children aged 1 to 4 years.

The importance of preventive dental care

Preventive dental care is crucial, and fluoride varnish is a highly effective method to prevent cavities. It strengthens tooth enamel and inhibits harmful bacteria growth, which is particularly important for young children who may not visit a dentist regularly. This practice not only helps prevent early childhood cavities but also promotes remineralization of the enamel, potentially reversing early signs of decay.