The role of fluoride in the prevention of tooth decay

Abstract

Aim and objectives; This study aims to demonstrate the need for fluoridation at an early age, in order to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Local fluoridation, associated with oral hygiene and general fluoridation, combined with a rational diet, scientifically designed in the spirit of non-karyogenesis, systematically applied in preschool and school children, has allowed a significant reduction in frequency and intensity indices of dental carie, in European populations with high economic and health standards. Systematic oral hygiene, generalized in school children through educational methods has led to a reduction in the rates of marginal gingivitis. Material and methods; 50 children aged 6-12 years were selected and randomly divided into two groups (n = 50): (1) control: no preventive intervention oral hygiene instructions; (2) oral hygiene instructions and fluoride varnish at baseline and 6 months later. At baseline and 6 and 12 months after the intervention, caries risk reduction was the primary outcome. Results; A total of 43 completed the study. There was no significant difference between groups. Oral Hygiene Instructions alone or associated with the use of fluoride varnish reduced the caries incidence in young children. Conclusions; The incidence of dental caries in young children was decreased by oral hygiene instructions either by themselves or in conjunction with fluoride varnish use.