Fluoride Mouthrinses and Fluoride Varnishes

Abstract

The cariostatic efficacy of rinsing with a 0.05–0.2% neutral sodium fluoride solution has been clearly demonstrated, especially in supervised school-based programmes in moderate and high caries risk children. The cost-benefit effect, however, is questionable in populations with low caries prevalence, and fluoride rinsing programmes are gradually being replaced by more individual fluoride therapy comprising combinations of fluoride toothpastes, tablets, or varnishes. Fluoride varnishes were developed as individual alternatives to conventional topical fluoride application and are today gaining acceptance for clinical application. Two varnishes, Duraphat® containing 5%wt NaF and Fluor Protector® with 0.9% wt fluor silane, are available commercially. The clinical effects seem to depend mainly on application frequency, especially in high caries risk groups. The cost-benefit effect is high, but can be increased by delegating application to auxiliary personnel in conjunction with regular dental visits. Toxicologically both fluoride mouthrinses and fluoride varnishes are safe if used as directed.

In vitro and in vivo assessment of a glass slow fluoride releasing device: a pilot study

“…3 Another approach is the use of F mouth rinses in home or school-based programmes; they are widely used in the USA and Scandinavia, and have been clinically effective. 4 Dentifrices containing F have been available for over 50 years but regular usage by the majority of the population has never been achieved, even though F toothpastes are effective in preventing dental caries.…”

Sealing of Fissures on Masticatory Surfaces of Teeth as a Method for Caries Prophylaxis

“…Fluoride varnishes reduce caries from 50 to 70% depending on frequency of application. In case of three applications during one year, caries reduction on masticatory surfaces is from 50 to 56%, whereas with three yearly applications during three years the value increases to 70% (61). It seems that the long-term prophylactic effect of sealing procedure depends not only on the above mentioned factors -with reference to sealed masticatory surface and whole dentition -but also other factors, such as: type of fluoride compounds and frequency of its application, level of oral infection in a given individual, number of microorganisms from Streptococcus mutans group in saliva and person's dietary and hygienic habits.…”

Oral Health in the United States: The Post-Fluoride Generation

“…After correct rinsing, only a minimal portion of fluoride is retained and swallowed. With a 10-ml mouth rinse volume, ∼15% is retained and swallowed, which is far below any potentially toxic effect (105), but small children tend to swallow higher percentages and, in some cases, the entire volume (142).…”