What is the USPSTF stance on dental caries prevention in kids under 5 with fluoride varnish?

• A. Fluoride varnish is not recommended for infants and children.
• B. Apply fluoride varnish only after the first birthday.
• C. Apply fluoride varnish only in high-risk children.
• D. Primary care clinicians should apply fluoride varnish to primary teeth starting at age of eruption.

Answer: (D)

Fluoride varnish is a simple, low-risk, and effective preventive measure that primary care clinicians can deliver during well‑child visits. The guidance emphasizes starting varnish application with the eruption of the primary teeth and continuing as part of routine preventive care in early childhood. This broad approach helps reduce caries risk across all young children and improves access to prevention, since it can be done in a medical office rather than requiring a dental visit. It is not limited to only high‑risk kids and is not delayed until after the first birthday. So, clinicians should apply fluoride varnish to the primary teeth starting at eruption.