Training more primary care providers to apply fluoride varnish was highlighted by the 2017-2020 Pennsylvania Oral Health Plan as a cost-effective method for improving pediatric oral health. Childhood caries, or cavities,are the most common chronic childhood disease and accessing regular dental care can be difficult for many people. Application of fluoride varnish in the primary care setting allows clinicians to protect more children from adverse oral health outcomes.

​

Thanks to funding from the PA Coalition for Oral Health, SE PA AHEC is able to provide free starter kits to primary care providers who would like to offer fluoride varnish. These kits include information about reimbursement, information on how to access the Smiles for Life training with CMEs, a risk-assessment tool, and varnish packs.