FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RICHMOND – The Virginia Dental Association (VDA) applauds the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that doctors apply a fluoride varnish on the teeth of children ages six months to five years. The AAP contends, and the VDA agrees, that the varnish can help reduce cavities, the top chronic disease affecting young children.

The AAP included the new guideline on fluoride varnish as part of a larger update to its Recommendations for Preventive Pediatric Health Care. The report also suggests changes in how physicians should address vision screenings, depression, high blood cholesterol levels and iron deficiency among other conditions. See the full report here.

Statement from VDA President Richard L. Taliaferro DDS:

“The Virginia Dental Association is delighted that the American Academy of Pediatrics is encouraging parents to start their children’s dental care early.  We know that most children do not start seeing a dentist until later so it is helpful for pediatricians to both apply a fluoride varnish and examine their young patients’ teeth in advance of that first visit. This is a win-win for oral health in general, and as the organization representing the vast majority of dentists in the Commonwealth, the VDA is on board with this new recommendation from the AAP.”

Media: For coverage questions, please contact Danny Rubin of Rubin Communications Group at danny@rubincommunications.com or 757-285-7617.

###