Effect of topical fluoride gel and fluoride varnish in the prevention of white spot lesions in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment: An in vivo study

Abstract

Objectives: Our primary objective was to establish the efficacy of fluoride gel and fluoride varnish in the prevention of white spot lesions (WSLs) development during fixed orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of 60 adult patients in a prospective split-mouth study design. Interventions, that is, topical fluoride gel and topical fluoride varnish were assigned at the time of bonding to either the right or left halves of the dentition. In all subjects, repeated evaluation of demineralization was done on the facial surfaces of sample teeth in each quadrant. Evaluation using laser fluorescence and by direct visual observation under magnification was carried out at bonding (T0), 3 months (T1), and 6 months (T2). Results: The distribution of mean DIAGNOdent score at T1 (3.14 ± 1.00 vs. 2.81 ± 0.852) and T2 (4.17 ± 1.41 vs. 3.51 ± 1.13) was observed which is significantly higher in the Gel group compared to the Varnish group. In the Gel group, the distribution of mean DIAGNOdent score at T1 (3.14 ± 1.00) and T2 (4.17 ± 1.41) is significantly higher compared to mean DIAGNOdent score at baseline T0 (2.07 ± 0.66). In the Varnish group, the distribution of mean DIAGNOdent score at T1 (2.81 ± 0.852) and T2 (3.51 ± 1.13) is significantly higher compared to the mean DIAGNOdent score at T0 (2.07 ± 0.66). Visual scores also correlated with DIAGNOdent scores. Conclusion: Fluoride varnish is more efficacious than fluoride gel in reducing enamel demineralization. Initial application of fluoride varnish around the orthodontic bracket at bonding appointment can offer significant protection against WSLs.

Clinical evaluation of white spot lesions treated by surface pre-reacted glass filler coating material in comparison with Icon resin infiltration by laser fluorescence. (A randomized controlled trial)

“…Also, LF can be used prevention protocols objective by comparing to the visual examination (23) . The visual examination dependent on the skills of operator and experience of assessment.…”