Who is eligible to receive fluoride varnish?
Children up to 6 years of age and who are on Medical Assistance / BadgerCare or who are uninsured may be eligible for free Fluoride Varnish through the Health Department. 920-674-7275
Any child under the age of six with at least one tooth is eligible to receive fluoride varnish.
What is fluoride varnish?
Fluoride varnish is a liquid coating (medicine) that is applied to a child's teeth with a brush.It coats the teeth and helps prevent cavities from forming. It dries instantly and only takes minutes to apply.
What does fluoride varnish do?
Fluoride varnish provides a protective coating of fluoride on teeth. The varnish releases fluoride over several months, which strengthens teeth and prevents decay.
How often does the varnish need to be reapplied?
The fluoride varnish needs to be reapplied every 3-4 months to maintain its effectiveness.
What are the advantages of fluoride varnish? Why is fluoride varnish recommended?
The advantages of applying fluoride varnish is that it helps prevent decay, it is easily applied, no instruments are put into the mouth, it is tasteless and it is fast setting on the teeth.
Tooth decay is very preventable. Even young children can get cavities. Cavities can be painful and impair a child's ability to eat, speak, sleep, grow and learn.
Is fluoride varnish safe?
Fluoride varnish is safe and American Dental Association (ADA) approved.
Adverse reactions are extremely rare.
What can I expect after the fluoride varnish is applied?
After the fluoride varnish is applied, there may be a temporary change in tooth color. The teeth initially may look brown but will return to the normal color within days.
How can I help the children in my care receive the most from the fluoride application?
After children receive the fluoride application, they should eat soft foods (avoiding crunchy and sticky foods) for the remainder of the day. Fluoride supplements such as drops, tablets or mouth rinse should not be given to the child until the next day. Your child can have a drink of water. It is normal for their teeth to look dull and have a yellow tint to them. This will go away after the teeth are brushed. Don't brush your child's teeth until the next day.
How can I get fluoride varnish for my children?
Talk to your child's dentist to see if he/she provides this serve for children.
Where can I get more information?
You can call the Jefferson County Health Department at 920-674-7275.
How Much does it cost?
Donations are appreciated, but there is no cost for fluoride application.
We have fluoride in our water (or my child takes fluoride supplements)... can they still receive fluoride varnish?
Yes. Fluoride supplements work from the "inside-out" to strengthen teeth as they grow; fluoride varnish works from the "outside-in" to make the enamel on the outside stronger.
Does my child still need to see a dentist?
Yes. Fluoride varnish does not take the place of regular dental care.
Who should NOT receive fluoride varnish?
Children with large cavities or other sores in their mouths should see a dentist first. Anyone who is allergic to colophony should not receive fluoride varnish.
