Fluoride-Containing Gels, Mouth Rinses and Varnishes: An Update of Evidence of Efficacy (Report‪)‬

Introduction Fluoride (F) is the cornerstone in the prevention of dental caries, and a number of methods and technologies for application of different F compounds to the tooth surface have been developed. The purpose of this paper was to update existing systematic reviews on the efficacy of 3 of these technologies: Gels, Mouth rinses and Varnishes. Important clinical characteristics of these technologies vary (Table 1). As can be seen, the philosophy varies both concerning the cariostatic mechanisms of F, as reflected in contact time and concentration, and in the practical implementation in the field, including the personnel required. Economy and feasibility of the methods are other factors that may influence the choice between different methods. Finally, tradition and the biases of influential professionals in the field will also be important predictors. In the present paper, only efficacy has been considered, understood as "the extent to which an intervention produces a beneficial result under ideal conditions" [Cohrane collaboration, 2005], although there is no doubt that other factors than efficacy are just as important determinants for the choice of topical F.