Fluoride varnish application: a new prophylactic method in Albania. Effect on enamel carious lesions in permanent dentition

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the effects of fluoride varnishes on enamel caries lesions on permanent dentition.

Materials and methods: 92 children from primary school (Vasil Shanto, Tirana, Albania) aged 11-12 years were divided into varnish (experimental) and control group. The experiment group received the first fluoride varnish application (Fluoridin, Voco) at baseline, the second application after 3 months and the third application at 6 months from baseline, while the children in the control group received no professional fluoride application. Examinations were performed at baseline and after 7 months.

Results: We observed a slight increase in caries prevalence in the control group compared with the varnish group at the 7 month interval (P <0.1 for DMFT and P <0.5 for DMFS and DS). When enamel lesions were included the mean of DeMFT, DeMFS, DeS the caries prevalence was significantly lower in the varnish group after 7 months (P <0.001 for DeMFT, DeMFS).

Conclusion: Fluoride varnish is an effective mean for arresting early enamel lesions. It is a safe, convenient and well accepted method by patients.