In addition to the systemic fluoride that children should be receiving, either through the water supply or by prescription, twice yearly fluoride applications at the dentist’s office are an important part of an overall prevention strategy.

The latest form of “topical fluoride” is very different from what you may have had as a child.

Instead of the bulky trays that were kept in your mouth for what seemed like an eternity, the newest fluoride is just painted on the teeth and has very little taste.

Best of all, you can eat and drink immediately after using the new generation of fluoride varnishes.

Some varnishes, as pictured here are yellow in color, but the newest are actually tooth colored.