Regional School Unit 40
Adult Education
Fluoride Varnish Program
Keeping Your Child Healthy
Fluoride Treatment at School
With your permission, your child can get a free fluoride varnish treatment at school.
A health professional will provide a dental screening and apply a fluoride varnish treatment to
help strengthen the teeth.
This program receives funding from the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention
and the Maine Oral Health Program.
With your permission, your child can get a free fluoride varnish treatment at school.
A health professional will provide a dental screening and apply a fluoride varnish treatment to
help strengthen the teeth.
This program receives funding from the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention
and the Maine Oral Health Program.
What is Fluoride Varnish?
Fluoride Varnish is a protective coating that is painted on teeth to help prevent new cavities and to help stop cavities that are already started.
Why is Fluoride Varnish recommended for children’s teeth?
Tooth decay is one of the most common preventable diseases seen in children. Cavities in teeth can cause pain and effect children’s ability to eat, speak, sleep, and learn properly. Children do not lose all their baby teeth until they are 12 to 13 years old.
Is Fluoride Varnish safe?
Yes, Fluoride Varnish can be used on babies from the time they get their first teeth. Only a small amount of Fluoride Varnish is used. This method has been used in Europe for more than 30 years. Fluoride Varnish is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is endorsed by the American Dental Association.
How is it put on the teeth?
The Fluoride Varnish is applied to the teeth, by a health professional, using a small disposable brush. It is quick and easy to apply and does not have a bad taste. There is no pain when applying the Fluoride Varnish. Your child will be able to eat right after this treatment.
How long does the Fluoride Varnish last?
The effects of Fluoride Varnish will last up to several months and will be applied to your child’s teeth two times a year.
How to I get a Fluoride Varnish Permission Slip?
If you wish for your child to receive Fluoride Varnish twice during the school year, your permission is needed each year by checking the Fluoride permission box during the online registration process at the beginning of every school year. Fluoride Varnish is available to all students in grades Pre-K through 6 whose parents have indicated consent through this online registration process.
If you would like to make a change in status for your child concerning Fluoride Varnish at school at any time during the school year, please contact your child's school nurse.