Three-year randomized trial of professionally applied topical fluoride gel comparing annual and biannual applications with/without prior prophylaxis.

The twice yearly application to children's teeth of acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel in dental trays preceded by a professionally rendered 'dental prophylaxis' has become the standard and most commonly used dental chairside procedure for prevention of dental caries. This study was a randomized, 3-year, community-based clinical trial of professionally applied APF gel involving the use and non-use of a prior dental prophylaxis and annual and biannual APF applications for children in age groups 6-7 (n = 176) and 10-11 (n = 153) years initially, who are likely at high risk of future dental caries. The 3-year results of this study show no significant effect on dental caries reduction of either a prior prophylaxis or annual versus biannual APF gel applications. A significant reduction in the frequency of provision of these dental services, limited to high caries risk patients only, is recommended.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes