Duraphat varnish is a professionally applied dental treatment designed to prevent tooth decay and manage tooth sensitivity. It is a high-concentration sodium fluoride product that is painted directly onto the teeth by a dental professional. This creates a film that adheres to the tooth surfaces, providing enhanced protection against cavities for individuals who may be at a higher risk.
The Function of Fluoride Varnish
The varnish works by adhering to tooth enamel and slowly releasing a high concentration of fluoride over several hours. This prolonged contact allows the fluoride to be absorbed by the tooth structure. The fluoride inhibits demineralization, which is the breakdown of enamel by acids, and promotes remineralization, the natural repair process of microscopic decay.
When the varnish is applied, it reacts with saliva to form globules of calcium fluoride on the tooth surface. These globules act as a reservoir, releasing fluoride ions that penetrate the enamel. This process strengthens the tooth structure against acid attacks from bacteria. Applications are repeated every six months, or more frequently, like every three months, for those with greater susceptibility.
The Application and Aftercare Process
The application of Duraphat varnish is a straightforward and painless procedure performed in a dental office. A dental professional first prepares the teeth, which involves removing excess plaque and drying the surfaces to ensure the varnish adheres properly. Using a small brush or swab, a thin layer of the yellowish varnish is painted onto the most vulnerable areas of the teeth. The process is quick and non-invasive, requiring no drilling or local anesthetic.
After the varnish is applied, it sets quickly in the presence of saliva. Patients are given specific aftercare instructions to maximize the treatment’s effectiveness. This involves avoiding chewing food for at least four hours after the application to allow the varnish to fully set. During this initial period, consuming soft foods and liquids is permissible.
Patients are also advised not to brush or floss their teeth until the following day, or as directed by their dental professional. This ensures the protective film remains on the teeth for an extended period, allowing for optimal fluoride release and absorption.
Safety and Potential Side Effects
When applied by a dental professional, Duraphat varnish is considered a safe treatment. Only a small, measured dose is used, which minimizes the risk of ingesting too much fluoride. The amount applied is determined by the patient’s dentition, with specific dosages for primary, mixed, and permanent teeth to ensure safety.
The most common side effects are a temporary yellowish tint on the teeth and a sticky or rough feeling on the tooth surfaces. These effects are not permanent and are resolved once the patient brushes their teeth as instructed, the morning after the treatment.
Allergic reactions are rare but can occur, particularly in individuals with a known sensitivity to one of the ingredients, such as colophony (rosin). In very rare instances, edematous swellings have been reported after extensive applications. Patients should inform their dentist of any known allergies before treatment.