You’ve probably been asked, “How long do we have to wait before having a meal or drink?” following a fluoride treatment. That is arguable.

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

If patients are to get the most out of their varnish treatment, the type of varnish chosen may influence whether a morning patient can have a hot cup of coffee or what an evening patient may contemplate for dinner. Because fluoride varnish works best when it coats the teeth for an extended amount of time, premature eating and drinking can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Every varnish manufacturer has its own way of providing post-care instructions, so this fast guide helps to condense them down into a format that’s easy to understand.

Because many of the suggestions about additional fluoride use were quite consistent across the board, the summary below does not include post-care fluoride consumption (patient should avoid fluoride gels, foams, and rinses the day of treatment, and avoid fluoride tablets for 2-3 days after).

Here’s what you should and shouldn’t eat after a fluoride varnish treatment, according to 10 fluoride varnish manufacturers’ directions.

As stated in the instructions

After treatment, the patient may consume soft foods and cold beverages but should abstain from hot beverages, hard foods, alcohol (including mouthwash), brushing, and flossing for six hours.

To sum it up:

For at least 6 hours, avoid:

• Hot beverages • Difficult meals
• Brushing • Flossing • Alcohol (including mouthwash)

If your next dentist appointment is approaching, you should think about getting a fluoride treatment. The treatment will help you maintain the strength of your teeth, prevent tooth decay, and maybe lessen tooth sensitivity. Fluoride treatments are a low-cost, very effective method of enhancing your oral health. Don’t let your worries about what you’ll be able to eat and when you’ll be able to eat following the surgery prevent you from making the best decisions for your health.