The use of fluoride and chlorhexidine for the prevention of radiation caries.

A regime of four topical applications of 1.0% sodium fluoride-1.0% chlorhexidine digluconate plus daily rinses with an 0.05% sodium fluoride-0.2% chlorhexidine solution prevented radiation caries completely. It also resulted in remineralization of incipient existing lesions. Use of the chlorhexidine-fluoride rinses alone also stopped radiation caries but did not permit remineralization to occur. Use of four topical applications with a fluoride gel and daily rinses with an 0.05% sodium fluoride solution was not sufficient to prevent radiation caries. No chlorhexidine staining was observed. The patients' acceptance of and compliance with the program and the rinses was excellent.