Why is Applying Fluoride Varnish Important?

Date: 02/01/24

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Tooth decay is the most common preventable childhood disease. Keep your child’s smile big and healthy with fluoride varnish.

Tooth decay is damage to a tooth's surface. Tooth decay can lead to cavities, which are holes in your teeth. If tooth decay is not treated or prevented, it can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

Fluoride varnish can provide protection for your child’s teeth for several months. It’s a protective coating a doctor puts on your child’s teeth that prevents tooth decay. It takes less than two minutes to apply and dries almost instantly. The coating helps make the outer layer of their tooth enamel harder and stronger. As a result, your child is less likely to get cavities or experience tooth decay.

It is recommended for children to get it at least twice a year. It’s important to remember that fluoride varnish does not replace brushing your child’s teeth twice a day.

Children of all ages, even infants, can have fluoride varnish applied. Talk with your doctor about what is best for your child’s dental health. If you are a Louisiana Healthcare Connections member, this service is covered and comes at no cost to you.

Learn more about fluoride varnish.

Questions? Call us at 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., if you have questions or would like help scheduling your child’s fluoride varnish appointment.