The varnish was clearly more beneficial to the children than the gel and reduced the need for expensive fillings. Duraphat is available only to dental professionals. The cost is comparable to current fluoride gels and foams. Duraphat comes in a small tube and is painted on the teeth. The yellowish tint of the varnish allows dentists to see where the product has been applied.
Saliva enables it to adhere to teeth rapidly.
After one hour, children can rinse their mouth. The next morning, they should resume their normal brushing routine. Applying the varnish takes less than two minutes, making it ideal for patients who are anxious or who have special needs. The likable taste also is a drawing point, but for parents and the dental profession the two main benefits are its effectiveness in preventing the need for fillings and crowns, as well as the decreased risk of fluoride toxicity and fluorosis. Toxicity and its effects such as nausea are always a concern with children under 6.