You are here looking for the no BS answer to the question: How Long To Leave Fluoride Varnish On Teeth?
The most common problem of teeth among children is tooth decay. Unfortunately, excessive sweet consumption and ignorance can make it worse. This is when fluoride varnish is required.
Fluoride varnish is generally a dental treatment for tooth decay, strengthening the enamel or slowing down the process of the cavity. It must be done under a dentist’s supervision, and the solution must be kept intact for a stipulated time.
Read the full article to know “How long to leave fluoride varnish on teeth.”
How Long To Leave Fluoride Varnish On Teeth?
Fluoride Varnish is used to provide the highest fluoride content to your teeth. Your tongue can feel the fluoride coating right after its application. Fluoride varnish requires 4-6 hours to treat the affected area.
However, to get the perfect results, you must follow the necessary steps during the treatment hour. The following few steps should be kept in mind.
- After the treatment, do not brush your teeth or floss for 6-7 hours. It can remove the fluoride coating from your teeth. As a result, your entire treatment can go in vain.
- Only consume soft food. Hard foods can cause the fluoride layer to get off due to friction.
- Hot drinks are a strict no. The hotness can melt the layer easily, and your teeth will return to the initial phase as it was before the treatment.
- Oral hygiene is essential but after varnishing, wait for a day to resume your oral care.
Nonetheless, if you wish to remove the fluoride varnish treatment, then you can brush vigorously right after the treatment. But why would someone need to waste their money?
Do this in extreme conditions, like feeling very uncomfortable or if the treatment has not been done correctly. Or else, you can brush your teeth the next day to remove the extra fluoride.
Is Fluoride Varnish Safe?
Yes, Fluoride varnishing is used by dentists all around the world to treat children’s tooth decay. A small amount is used and kept for a day. Then it is washed off by brushing to get the perfect results.
If your teeth look dull or yellowish after the application, you don’t need to worry. It is because of the fluoride used. Your teeth will get back to normal after washing them the next day. The taste is fresh and won’t cause you any problem.
Also see: Is fluoride bad for teeth?
How Is Fluoride Varnish Treatment Done?
The fluoride solution is often sticky while applying, but it hardens right after the application. A small narrow brush is used to apply the paste on the top and sides of your teeth. It takes very little time to apply it, and the process needs to be fast since the fluoride paste hardens quickly.
You will not be hurt during the entire procedure, so you can sit comfortably and rest. However, a child can cry. But don’t worry, as crying makes it easier to apply the paste to the teeth.
Summary
Fluoride varnish is a crucial step to prevent tooth decay, and you must go to a dentist for this treatment right when you feel any mild pain in your teeth. This way, fluoride would save you from dangerous decay.
Take necessary steps after the treatment to get the best results. Even though you must keep it for 4 hours, how long to leave fluoride varnish on teeth depends on the type of brush used, product, and mouth. Act accordingly and get an excellent result!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Fluoride Varnish Whiten Teeth?
Yes, some products can whiten your teeth, but some would just leave them as it is.
How Much Is Fluoride Varnish?
Complete treatment can cost you up to $55. However, it can vary according to the service charges and the products used.
Is A Fluoride Varnish Worth It?
Yes, it is very effective. But the condition is you need to be regular and do this treatment every six months.
Who is viable for fluoride treatment?
Fluoride treatment is ideal for all children once their teeth begin to emerge. In addition, individuals with a crown or old filling, tooth sensitivity, receding gums and people with removable oral fixtures are viable for fluoride treatment.