Three-year randomized trial of professionally applied topical fluoride gel comparing annual and biannual applications with/without prior prophylaxis.
The twice yearly application to children's teeth of acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel in dental trays preceded by a professionally rendered 'dental prophylaxis' has become the standard and most commonly used dental chairside procedure for prevention of dental caries. This study was a randomized, 3-year, community-based clinical trial of professionally applied APF gel involving the use and non-use of a prior dental prophylaxis and annual and biannual APF applications for children in age groups 6-7 (n = 176) and 10-11 (n = 153) years initially, who are likely at high risk of future dental caries. The 3-year results of this study show no significant effect on dental caries reduction of either a prior prophylaxis or annual versus biannual APF gel applications. A significant reduction in the frequency of provision of these dental services, limited to high caries risk patients only, is recommended.
Johnston
D W
DW
Division of Community Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Lewis
D W
DW
D000149:Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000367:Age Factors; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D002327:Cariostatic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002648:Child; D004245:DMF Index; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003733:Dental Caries Susceptibility; D003750:Dental Fissures / Q000517:prevention & control; D003777:Dental Prophylaxis / Q000379:methods; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005460:Fluorides, Topical / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors
D002327:Cariostatic Agents; D005460:Fluorides, Topical; D005782:Gels; D000149:Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride