Implementation of Fluoride Varnish Application in a Large Pediatric Clinic

Abstract

Background: Early childhood caries is the number one chronic disease affecting young children, and it disproportionately affects children of low income families. Despite recommendations for children to see a dentist by 12 months, many families have trouble accessing oral health care. Caries have many potential consequences, such as pain, impaired chewing and nutrition, infection, increased caries in permanent dentition, school/work absences, difficulty sleeping, poor self-esteem, and extensive, expensive dental work, which often must be completed under general anesthesia. In 2014, the USPSTF recommended …