The use of fluoride and chlorhexidine for the prevention of radiation caries.
A regime of four topical applications of 1.0% sodium fluoride-1.0% chlorhexidine digluconate plus daily rinses with an 0.05% sodium fluoride-0.2% chlorhexidine solution prevented radiation caries completely. It also resulted in remineralization of incipient existing lesions. Use of the chlorhexidine-fluoride rinses alone also stopped radiation caries but did not permit remineralization to occur. Use of four topical applications with a fluoride gel and daily rinses with an 0.05% sodium fluoride solution was not sufficient to prevent radiation caries. No chlorhexidine staining was observed. The patients' acceptance of and compliance with the program and the rinses was excellent.
D002710:Chlorhexidine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D004245:DMF Index; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005459:Fluorides / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012969:Sodium Fluoride / Q000008:administration & dosage*
D012969:Sodium Fluoride; D005459:Fluorides; D002710:Chlorhexidine