Keep your smile stronger for longer

Fluoride varnish is a simple yet powerful preventative treatment that helps protect your teeth from cavities. At Oswyn House Dental Practice, we can apply a high-concentration fluoride coating directly to your teeth, helping to strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of decay.

Applied in just a few minutes, fluoride varnish is painless and effective – ideal for children, patients with dry mouth, or those undergoing orthodontic treatment. It’s an excellent addition to your regular dental care and can be used alongside other preventative treatments like fissure sealants or Guided Biofilm Therapy for even better protection.

What are the benefits?

Fluoride varnish offers quick and effective protection for patients of all ages, especially those at higher risk of tooth decay.

Strengthens enamel – Helps make teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and sugars.

Reduces risk of cavities – Proven to lower decay rates, especially in children and vulnerable adults.

Fast and painless – Quick to apply during a routine visit, with no discomfort and immediate protection.

Your frequently asked questions

Fluoride varnish is a protective coating that is painted onto the teeth to help strengthen enamel, prevent decay, and reduce sensitivity. It contains a safe, concentrated form of fluoride.

The varnish forms a thin layer on the teeth, slowly releasing fluoride. This makes enamel more resistant to acid attacks from sugars and bacteria, helping to protect against cavities.

Yes. Fluoride varnish has been used worldwide for decades and is proven to be safe and effective. Only a very small amount is applied, and it sets quickly once in contact with saliva.

It is suitable for children from the age of 3 (recommended twice a year by the NHS for most children), adults at higher risk of tooth decay, and patients with sensitive teeth or exposed root surfaces.

Most patients benefit from two applications per year, but those at higher risk of decay may need it more often.

The teeth are dried, and the varnish is painted onto the surfaces with a small brush. The process is quick, painless, and usually takes only a few minutes.

It may have a slightly fruity or medicinal taste, but most patients (including children) tolerate it very well.

Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few hours, stick to soft foods for the rest of the day and don’t brush your teeth until the end of the day.

No eating for an hour and it’s best to give soft foods only and avoid hot drinks for the rest of the day.

No. Fluoride varnish strengthens and protects teeth but does not change their natural colour.

Yes. Adults with sensitive teeth, gum recession, or higher decay risk can benefit from regular fluoride varnish applications.

Side effects are very rare. Occasionally, mild temporary discolouration of the teeth can occur, but this is harmless and disappears after brushing. Allergic reactions are extremely uncommon.