How Fluoride Varnish Strengthens and Protects Teeth

Woman smiling to show her healthy teethFluoride varnish is an effective way to strengthen and protect teeth. Fluoride varnish is a preventative treatment that is designed to remineralise the teeth. It consists of a highly concentrated paste of fluoride, which is applied to the teeth.

Fluoride treatments are commonly available at London Holborn dental practices such as Sardinia House Dental Practice. Dentists, hygienists or another health care professional must be the ones to apply it. Though the fluoride varnish treatment does not hurt, its application does require a level of skill and experience for it to be effective.

Remineralises Teeth

Fluoride is an essential mineral in dental care. The tooth’s protective outer layer, the enamel, comprises of hardened minerals. When we eat or drink acidic food, the teeth loose some of these minerals as the acids strip some of it away. When we eat or drink foods with minerals, it helps harden the teeth again.

Fluoride is one of the best ways to remineralise the teeth, which is why it is a common additive in toothpaste and water. A fluoride varnish gives the teeth an extra potent dose of fluoride, which hardens and strengthens the enamel.

Minimises Sensitivity

Since fluoride varnish strengthens the enamel, it can also be effective at minimising dental sensitivity. Dental sensitivity often occurs because a tooth’s enamel is too thin, which exposes sensitive nerves to temperature changes. This is why people who have sensitive teeth experience shooting pains whenever they drink something very cold, or very hot.

When the enamel thins, it becomes porous, which is visible only at the microscopic level. The addition of a fluoride varnish fills out those pores, strengthening the enamel and preventing sensitivity.

Prevents Decay

Unhealthy enamel also increases your chances of getting tooth decay. A good fluoride varnish is especially useful for preventing tooth decay among children, especially if applied at least twice a year.

Fluoride varnish is a highly effective and efficient way to keep the teeth strong and healthy. It provides extra protection in addition to a proper oral hygiene routine.