OBJECTIVES:

The use of topical fluoride is world wide accepted in the prevention of caries. One of the most used technique is the fluoride varnish due to the easy way to applicate it. The aim of this study is to consider all the evidence based literature about this topic and to evaluate the eventually lack of scientific demonstration.

METHODS:

We take into consideration all the evidence based dentistry resources (referred by Scharr guide) and Cochrane collaboration systematic review about this topic ( “Fluoride varnishes for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents”). As it is not clearly evaluated the possible side adverse effect of fluoride varnishes, we tested it. The sample consisted in two groups, randomly assigned, of 55 guys (28 male and 27 female, aged between 5 and 12) recruited in the Dental School of Brescia University. The first group underwent fluoride varnish application whereas second not. Patients were evaluated after 6 and 12 months considering caries index (DMFS), patient compliance and discomfort and eventually side adverse effects.

RESULTS:

The differences between two groups in caries index at 6 and 12 months are similar to those found in evidence based literature, showing a favourable preventing action of fluoride varnishes application against caries. First group accepted favourably the treatment without discomfort or any side adverse effect.

CONCLUSIONS:

The use of fluoride as preventing agent seems to be a necessary strategy to be adopted. Even if in this study we clearly do not find any negative aspect, further studies are necessary to consider fluoride varnishes without any side adverse effects. The evidence based approach of this study emphasises the necessity to discover an answer to scientific questions still unclear.

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