A protective coat for your teeth
Fluoride varnish is a yellowish gel containing a high concentration of fluoride, painted quickly
and painlessly onto the teeth. It sets on contact with saliva and slowly releases fluoride into the
enamel, making teeth substantially more resistant to decay.
Who benefits?
- Children — through Scotland's Childsmile
programme, children can have fluoride varnish applied from age two, usually twice a year. It's
one of the most effective decay-prevention measures there is.
- Adults at higher risk of decay — including those with
dry mouth, receding gums with exposed roots, extensive fillings, or a
sweet tooth.
- People with sensitive teeth — varnish helps seal exposed dentine. See
sensitive teeth.
What happens?
- Teeth are dried gently with cotton wool or air.
- The varnish is painted on with a tiny brush — it takes under a minute.
- That's it. No drilling, no needles, nothing to feel.
Aftercare
- Avoid eating for about an hour afterwards.
- Stick to soft foods and cool drinks for the rest of the day.
- Brush your teeth as normal at night — current Childsmile guidance is to keep your usual brushing routine.
- Teeth may look slightly yellow until the varnish brushes off — completely normal.
Safe and quick: fluoride varnish is used on millions of children
every year and is one of the safest, most evidence-backed treatments in dentistry.
Ask about fluoride varnish at your next check-up, or call 0141 554 0499.
