Fluoride varnish efficacy in adults
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Fluoride Varnish Efficacy in Adult Dental Caries Prevention
Efficacy of Fluoride Varnish for Caries Prevention in Adults
Research consistently shows that fluoride varnish is effective in preventing dental caries among adults, especially in older populations and those at higher risk. Studies in long-term care facilities found that professionally applied fluoride varnish, combined with oral hygiene training for staff, significantly reduced the number of new carious teeth in older adults over a 12-month period, while control groups without varnish experienced an increase in caries and plaque scores . Systematic reviews further confirm that 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish and 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel can prevent root caries in older adults, with root caries-prevented fractions of up to 64% for NaF varnish . These findings are supported by extensive clinical trials and laboratory research, which show that fluoride varnishes are as effective as other caries-preventive agents and are safe and easy to apply .
Fluoride Varnish for Hypersensitivity and Remineralization
Fluoride varnish is also effective in reducing hypersensitivity in adults with exposed root surfaces. In a randomized clinical trial, fluoride varnish provided the best reduction in hypersensitivity values over both short and long-term follow-up periods compared to other treatments . Additionally, in situ studies demonstrate that all tested fluoride varnishes can remineralize enamel, though their efficacy varies depending on the product composition . In vitro investigations confirm that differences in varnish composition affect their ability to release fluoride, reharden enamel, and deliver fluoride to demineralized lesions, but all tested varnishes showed some level of anticaries efficacy .
Cost-Effectiveness and Target Populations
The cost-effectiveness of fluoride varnish applications depends on the caries risk of the population. In low-risk adult groups, fluoride varnish is less cost-effective, being more expensive and only minimally more effective than no varnish. However, in medium- and high-risk groups, the cost per avoided decayed, missing, or filled tooth (DMFT) is much lower, making fluoride varnish a more viable preventive strategy for these populations .
Conclusion
Fluoride varnish is a proven, safe, and effective method for preventing dental caries and reducing hypersensitivity in adults, particularly in older and high-risk populations. Its efficacy in remineralizing early caries lesions and preventing new caries is well-supported, though product composition can influence results. For maximum benefit and cost-effectiveness, fluoride varnish should be targeted toward adults at higher risk for dental caries.
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