Fluoride varnish
Fluoride varnish is a sticky coating, painted onto the teeth, that releases fluoride to help strengthen the enamel and slow or stop early decay. It is quick, needs no injection and is not drilled. For children at higher risk of cavities, it is usually applied a few times a year, alongside brushing with fluoride toothpaste at home.
Step by step
- 1Check your child's risk
The dentist looks at the teeth, asks about snacks, drinks and brushing, and decides whether varnish is suitable and how often.
- 2Dry the teeth
The teeth are gently wiped or air-dried so the varnish can stick.
- 3Paint on the varnish
A very small amount is brushed thinly over the teeth. It sets in seconds on contact with saliva.
- 4Aftercare advice
You are told what to eat for the rest of the day and when to resume brushing.
- A child who has had cavities, or who has white or chalky patches that are early signs of decay
- A child who snacks or sips sugary drinks often
- A child whose brushing is not yet thorough, or who has braces or other appliances
- A child who has medical conditions or medicines that dry the mouth
The varnish may leave the teeth looking slightly yellow or dull until it wears off. Your child can usually eat and drink soon afterwards, but should have soft, non-hot food and cool drinks for the rest of the day. The dentist may advise leaving brushing until the next morning so the varnish stays on the teeth for as long as possible. There is no numbness.
Fluoride varnish is considered safe for children when applied by a dentist, because only a very small amount is used and little is swallowed. Mild stomach upset is rare. Children who have a known allergy to dental products or to colophony (a resin sometimes found in varnishes) should tell the dentist first. Fluoride varnish does not replace brushing or a sensible diet. Too much fluoride from toothpaste swallowed over many years can cause white marks on adult teeth, so toothpaste amounts should be kept to those below.
What affects the cost
We don't publish prices online. After an examination you get a written estimate that lists each item.
Payment by card, cash or UPI.
Questions patients ask
Is fluoride varnish safe for young children?
Yes, when a dentist applies it. Only a very thin layer is used, so very little is swallowed. Mainstream guidance from the NHS and the American Dental Association supports it for children at higher risk of decay.
How often does my child need it?
For children at higher risk, it is usually applied a few times a year, for example every 3 to 6 months. Your dentist will decide this after looking at your child's teeth and habits.
How much toothpaste should my child use at home?
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use a smear, about the size of a grain of rice, for children under 3, and a pea-sized amount from age 3. Help your child to spit out and not swallow it, and do not rinse with lots of water afterwards.
Why do the teeth look yellow afterwards?
The varnish is slightly sticky and can give a temporary yellow or dull look. It wears off over a few hours to a day and brushing then removes the rest.
Can fluoride varnish reverse a cavity?
It can help harden early white chalky spots on the enamel and slow their progress. It cannot repair a cavity that has already formed, which needs a filling.
Questions about this treatment?
Send a WhatsApp message or book an examination. The dentist explains the options before anything starts.