Fluoride varnishes. A review of their clinical use, cariostatic mechanism, efficacy and safety.
BACKGROUND
This is a review of the clinical use, cariostatic mechanism, efficacy, safety and toxicity of fluoride varnishes.


METHODS
The authors reviewed and summarized in vitro, in vivo and in situ studies; clinical trials; demonstration programs; position papers; and editorials published in English in the biomedical literature since 1966.


RESULTS
Extensive laboratory research and clinical trials conducted in Europe and elsewhere show that fluoride varnishes are as efficacious as other caries-preventive agents. Fluoride varnishes are widely used in European caries-preventive programs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has cleared these products only as medical devices to be used as cavity liners and for the treatment of hypersensitive teeth. These products have not yet been cleared for marketing in the United States as caries-preventive agents.


CONCLUSIONS
Three fluoride varnishes are currently available in the United States. Semiannual applications are the most proven treatment regimen. Varnishes are safe and easy to apply and set in contact with intraoral moisture.
Beltrán-Aguilar
E D
ED
Surveillance, Investigations and Research Branch, Division of Oral Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC-DOH, Chamblee, Ga. 30341, USA.
Goldstein
J W
JW
Lockwood
S A
SA
D002327:Cariostatic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003736:Dental Cavity Lining / Q000009:adverse effects; D005460:Fluorides, Topical / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D012449:Safety; D014481:United States
D002327:Cariostatic Agents; D005460:Fluorides, Topical