Effectiveness of root caries preventive and arresting agents in middle age and older adults: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Root caries among adults is a concern and requires special attention. This systematic review aimed to assess the findings on the effectiveness of different agents to treat root caries in middle age and older adults. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched systematically, following PRISMA guidelines. Clinical trials that evaluate the effectiveness of preventive and/or arresting agents for root caries in patients over 50 years old, published from 2011 to 2019 (June). This review has been registered at PROSPERO database (CRD42018104399). Results: Twelve of 277 studies fully encountered the inclusion criteria and were selected for this review. Eight agents were identified in the studies and their efficacy were assessed by different methods. The agents that presented valuable results on arresting or preventing root caries were 38% SDF, arginine-containing toothpaste and high-fluoride toothpastes. Conclusion: Based on the selected studies’ findings, annual applications of 38% SDF could be the most effective treatment for root caries in older adults. In addition, the daily use of a 1,5% arginine toothpaste or a high fluoride toothpastes could also be recommended. More research on root-caries-specific diagnose methods, especially at very early stages, are necessary.