varnish

varnish

[vär′nish]

a solution of natural resins and gums or concentrated fluoride used as a protective coating over the surfaces of a dental cavity preparation before restorative material is applied or over a tooth surface after sealing and root planing. Fluoride varnish occludes dentinal tubules, resulting in caries prevention and reduced dental hypersensitivity.

varnish

(var'nish)

A solution of gums and resins in a solvent. When these are applied to a surface, the solvent evaporates and leaves a hard, more or less flexible film. In dentistry, varnishes are used to protect sensitive tooth areas such as the pulp. Synonym: cavity varnish

cavity varnish

Varnish..

varnish (vär´nish),

n (cavity liner, cavity varnish), a clear solution of resinous material or natural gum, such as copal or rosin dissolved in acetone, ether, or chloroform, which is capable of hardening without losing its transparency. Varnish is used in cavity preparations to seal out dentinal tubules, reduce microleakage, and insulate the pulp against shock from thermal changes.

varnish, fluoride,

n a sticky yellowish protective coating of 5% sodium fluoride in a resin base that is painted over the teeth to prevent dental caries in children and adults. It hardens on contact with saliva. It is also used to reduce root sensitivity. Its effects on enamel fluoride appear to provide a lower risk of accidental fluoride ingestion than most other topical fluoride treatments.