Fluoride Varnish Application

Applying fluoride varnish provides a child with highly concentrated fluoride to protect against caries. Fluoride varnish may be professionally applied and the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends this service be delivered in the primary care setting.

It is recommended that fluoride varnish be applied to the primary teeth starting at the age of primary tooth eruption through age 6 years. PPHPs should also consider applying it to children >6 years who do not receive regular dental visits. (Check your state’s guidance regarding insurance reimbursement.) Remember that fluoride varnish can be applied to arrest early childhood caries and prevent progression of caries already present until the child can be seen by a dentist.

For additional information, see Prevention of Dental Caries in Children Younger Than Age 5 Years: Screening and Interventions at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK202090/pdf/Bookshelf_NBK202090.pdf and the AAP Bright Futures Periodicity Schedule.