Comment: The quality of evidence is downgraded by study limitations (unclear allocation concealment).
A Cochrane review (abstract , review [Abstract]) included 37 studies with a total of 15 813 patients. All trials tested supervised use of fluoride mouthrinse (mostly sodium fluoride at two main strengths, 230 or 900 ppm FF) in schools. Thedecayed (missing) and filled permanent tooth surfaces [D(M)FS] pooled prevented fraction (PF) was 27% (95% confidence interval (CI), 23% to 30%; p < 0.0001;35 trials, n=15 305). PF values between under 10% are considered to be a small effect; above 20% a large or substantial effect. There is little information concerning possible adverse effects or acceptability of treatment in the included trials.
Primary/Secondary Keywords