I have heard of fluoride treatment at the dentist’s office to help prevent cavities. What is fluoride varnish?

Fluoride varnish is a type of topical fluoride that is "painted" on the teeth and dries quickly. The 2.36% strength varnish has been shown to be very effective in preventing cavities. Cavity varnish is rapidly replacing the 1.23% fluoride gel as the procedure of choice for topical fluoride cavity protection. Almost all patients like the varnish much better than the gel for two main reasons. First, the varnish is quickly painted on teeth with a small brush, while the gel is delivered in a big foam tray that has to be in a patient's mouth for 4 minutes. Additionally, patients can eat 15 minutes after the varnish is placed, but with the gel, it is best to wait several hours before eating to maximize its preventive benefits. My hygienist routinely recommends varnish during orthodontic treatment to prevent cavities.

I want to get my teeth straightened and I want to bleach them to make them whiter. Should I do it before or after treatment? How does bleaching work?

If you are using Invisalign aligners to straighten your teeth then it can be done before, after or even during treatment. If you are getting braces, after is best. The active ingredient in bleaching gel is hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is applied to your teeth using a clear plastic tray. As the hydrogen peroxide degrades it produces free radicals that diffuse rapidly through enamel and dentin. These free radicals are strong oxidizers that split up pigmenting compounds that diffuse out of your teeth, causing the tooth to absorb less light. This process causes teeth to look lighter. Call 1-800-4Braces for a free consultation.