title: An evaluation of the use of professional (operator-applied) topical fluorides.
abstract: Application of fluoride solutions, gels, varnishes, and prophylaxis pastes is reviewed as well as the sequential APF/SnF2 office-rinse method. The most widely-used technique is with 1.23% APF gel (12,300 ppm F) in trays. Clinical results from this method are similar to those achieved with an APF solution of the same fluoride concentration. A professional APF gel/tray application need not be preceded by a prophylaxis, should last four min, and should not be followed by a water rinse for 30 min. Fluoride varnishes are newer topical fluoride agents, but their relative efficacy, compared with other proven caries-inhibitory methods, remains to be fully determined. In general, fluoride prophylaxis pastes have not been shown to inhibit caries; however, their use is justified by the ability of some to replenish fluoride lost from the abrasive action of the paste on tooth enamel. The sequential office-rinse method has not been tested in randomized clinical trials, and its use cannot be recommended.
authors.affiliation: Department of Children's Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, State University of New York, Stony Brook 11794-8701.
authors.forename: L W
authors.initials: LW
authors.lastname: Ripa
mesh_terms: D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005460:Fluorides, Topical / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000032:analysis / Q000633:toxicity; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D009067:Mouthwashes; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants; D014100:Toothpastes
chemical_list: D005460:Fluorides, Topical; D005782:Gels; D009067:Mouthwashes; D010895:Pit and Fissure Sealants; D014100:Toothpastes