How often is fluoride varnish recommended for preschoolers at risk for dental caries?

• A. Every 6 months
• B. Every 3–6 months
• C. Annually
• D. Every 2 weeks

Answer: (B)

Regular fluoride varnish should be given at intervals that provide ongoing protection as a child grows and caries risk can change. For preschoolers who are at increased risk, applying varnish every 3 to 6 months offers repeated remineralization and decay prevention without overdoing it, aligning with how erupting teeth and risk factors evolve. The interval is short enough to guard against new vulnerabilities but long enough to be practical and safe. Longer gaps, like annually, can leave periods of higher risk unmanaged, while far more frequent applications (such as every 2 weeks) aren’t necessary or practical.