2.3 Mineral and Antimicrobial Agents
Topical Fluorides
 Fluoride varnish application is currently the best choice for children under age 6.
For patients at moderate, high, or very high risk for dental caries, professionally applied topical fluorides should be applied at least twice per year. Common forms of topical fluorides are gels, foams, and varnishes. Children under age 6 should not receive fluoride gel or foam treatments because of the risk of swallowing too much fluoride. Fluoride varnish application is the best choice for children under age 6.
Fluoride varnish also helps prevent caries on the occlusal surfaces of partially erupted molars. Applying a coating of fluoride varnish to the pits and fissures of partially erupted molars, especially the surface that is covered by the operculum, provides fluoride to the immature enamel until the tooth has erupted sufficiently to allow sealant placement. A variety of fluoride varnish regimens can be effective. For example, fluoride varnish may be applied three times in a week or two to four times per year.
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