In what scenario would a dental professional recommend the use of fluoride varnish?

Fluoride varnish is recommended in scenarios where patients are at heightened risk for dental caries, and xerostomia, or dry mouth, significantly increases this risk. Patients with xerostomia often do not produce enough saliva, which plays a critical role in neutralizing acids produced by bacteria, remineralizing teeth, and providing essential minerals. As a result, these patients are more susceptible to tooth decay, making the application of fluoride varnish beneficial. The varnish helps to strengthen the enamel and can provide additional protection against caries, making it an effective preventive measure in this context.

While fluoride varnish is certainly valuable for patients with visible cavities and can help in some cases regardless of hygiene practices, recommending it solely for those instances does not encompass its broader preventive role, particularly for those unable to maintain optimal saliva flow like those with xerostomia. Similarly, using it exclusively for children under 12 overlooks the importance of fluoride treatment for all age groups, especially those with oral health challenges.