Flouride varnish treatment - opinions please

[AugustRose]

At a visit to the dentist last week he suggested this treatment for my DD2 who is 6. He said her 4 back molars which have come in recently could do with the treatment as the enamel looks weak. I initially agreed but now have reservations, I know it is done routinely in Scotland and in some other areas (I am in Cumbria) but I'm just not sure. I have read positive and negative comments but all the articles/discussions I can find seem to be from a year or two ago so am looking more recent experiences.

Thanks in advance.

The varnish is painted on but is not permanent. It will wash away within 24hrs but during that time fluoride ions will be absorbed by the enamel strengthening it and making it more resistant to decay. The varnish is just a concentrated form of toothpaste.
The varnish is only applied once every 3-6 months so the overall dose is extremely small.
Fluoride is found in lots of things such as tea. In some areas it occurs naturally in the water. There has always been opposition to fluoridation of water but mostly from those opposed to any mass medication. If you drink tea then you are fluoridating your own drinks. And the trendy green tea has twice as much fluoride as black tea apparently.
Ask your dentist for advice on prevention of decay. Fluoride alone will not guarantee a healthy mouth.

I'd go for fissure sealants rather than flouride if they are offered. At 6 they should be using an adult toothpaste with a decent level of fluoride in anyway.