Both of our twins have 8 teeth each. I haven’t taken them to a pediatric dentist yet because I thought I would wait until their 2nd birthday. Last week they had a checkup with our pediatrician. Everything went fine with their physical but then the doctor started looking at their teeth. She asked if they have seen a dentist yet, and I explained why not. So the doctor explained that since their teeth have erupted, I need to schedule an appointment for her to put fluoride varnish on the twins’ teeth. How do I know if this is a necessary thing or just an add-on from the doctor? Also, shouldn’t a pediatric dentist be doing this? Thanks. Vanessa
Vanessa – Fluoride varnish is a protective coating that is brushed on the biting surfaces and sides of teeth. The fluoride penetrates tooth enamel and hardens the tooth. It’s used to help prevent or slow down tooth decay. But it may not completely prevent decay.
The process is simple:
- Gauze is used to clean and dry each tooth.
- Varnish is painted on the top and sides of each tooth. This only takes a few minutes.
- The varnish will quickly harden.
- You may be instructed not to brush or floss your child’s teeth until the next morning.
- The varnish will brush off.
Pediatricians are trained to apply fluoride varnish to children’s teeth. The varnish is safe and is used by dentists and doctors all over the world.
If you are wondering if the varnish should be used on your children’s teeth, speak with your family dentist. It is possible that your dentist accepts young children as patients. If so, and your dentist recommends fluoride varnish for your children, you may be more comfortable with your dentist applying it.
Although many parents wait until age 2 to take their child to a dentist, teeth can be examined when they erupt. This method ensures proper dental care and early detection of dental issues before they progress.
This post is sponsored by Bedminster, NJ dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.