5% Clear Sodium Fluoride Varnish with Xylitol

More efficient fluoride treatments for optimal patient satisfaction

Figure 1 | For decades, dental professionals have been performing in-office fluoride treatments for patients who may be at higher risk of developing caries by incorporating two popular types of products: topical fluoride gel and fluoride foam. Although these materials have long been considered the standard of care, both have limitations in terms of efficacy, delivery, and product features. These offerings require the use of bulky, uncomfortable foam trays to hold the material against the tooth surface teamed with a saliva ejector. This proves difficult for small children to maintain in the mouth for several minutes, and it also creates an environment where the material can be ingested or may induce gagging. Additionally, the patient may have eating and drinking restrictions upon completion of the treatment.

For dental professionals seeking a more convenient and efficacious professional fluoride material, fluoride varnish is quickly becoming the preferred fluoride treatment. Fluoride varnish is a highly concentrated form of fluoride that is applied to the tooth’s surface and remains affixed for several hours (as opposed to 1 to 4 minutes). It can be used to help prevent decay, remineralize the tooth surface, and treat dentin hypersensitivity.

Fluoride varnish is traditionally composed of a high concentration of fluoride in a fast-drying, alcohol- and resin-based solution. The concentration, form of fluoride, and dispensing method may vary depending on the brand, with many popular fluoride varnishes containing 5% sodium fluoride (as compared with 1.23% found in foam and gel). It is commonly applied directly to the tooth surface with a small applicator or brush, eliminating the need for the traditional foam trays. Once applied, the material begins to set up in the presence of saliva and hardens to the tooth surface in less than 30 seconds. The patient can immediately leave the office and should be advised to allow varnish to remain in contact with the tooth surfaces for a minimum of 4 hours. For maximum fluoride uptake, the varnish can remain on the teeth overnight and can easily be brushed off in the morning.

Darby Dental Supply offers a premium 5% Clear Sodium Fluoride Varnish with Xylitol formula in two great tasting flavors—mint and melon. The clear formula is easy to apply, and dries clear on the tooth.

For more information, contact:
Darby Dental
800-645-2310
www.darby.com