Fluoride Varnishes for Preventing Dental Caries in Children and Adolescents

Summary

A Cochrane review [Abstract] 1 included 22 studies with a total of 12 455 subjects; 9 595 subjects were used in analyses. The D(M)FS prevented fraction pooled estimate comparing fluoride varnish with placebo or no treatment was 0.43 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.57, statistical heterogeneity I² =75%; 13 studies, n=6 478), suggesting a substantial benefit from the use of fluoride varnish. The pooled d(e/m)fs prevented fraction estimate was 0.37 (95% CI 0.24 to 0.51, I² = 59%; 10 studies, n=3 804). No significant association between estimates of D(M)FS or d(e/m)fs prevented fractions and the pre-specified factors of baseline caries severity, background exposure to fluorides, application features such as prior prophylaxis, concentration of fluoride, frequency of application were found. There was little information concerning possible adverse effects or acceptability of treatment.