What is Dental Fluoride Varnish?

La Clinica provides a dental fluoride varnish application during well-child checkups and Happy Smiles exams.

Fluoride varnish is a temporary protective coating that is painted on teeth to help prevent cavities. It has been used for more than 25 years to fight early childhood cavities.

Studies have shown a 25-45 percent reduction in the decay rate with the use of fluoride varnish. A study by the Iowa Department of Public Health found a 44 percent cavities reduction among 3-year-olds who got the treatment twice a year. Fluoride varnish is safe for infants and children because a small amount is used and it sticks to teeth so they don’t swallow it.

Taking steps to prevent cavities in children is a good way to set them up for a lifetime of good dental health. That’s important to La Clinica. In fact, preventing cavities is important for everyone! Fluoride varnish can help protect people of all ages from cavities. Any La Clinica patient can get it at our dental clinics.

The Oregon Health Plan covers it for all ages. Some other insurances also cover it. If your insurance doesn’t cover it or you don’t have insurance, you can apply for our sliding scale for a discount.