Effect of a sodium fluoride varnish on the progress of initial caries lesions

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Abstract
Effect of applications of a sodium fluoride varnish, Duraphat, on progress of intial caries lesions was studied in 11- to 13-yr-old children. All 60 children included in the study had high caries activity and life-long exposure to fluoridated drinking water. The varnish was applied semiannually using the half mouth technique, and annual clinical and radiographic examinations were made for 3 yr. The treatment had little effect on the progress of intial caries lesions present before the 1st application of varnish. The progress of caries lesions formed during the study was inhibited more distinctly, and the difference between test and control side in the rate of progress of caries lesions was highly statistically significant. Use of fluoride varnish seems to help in preventing further development of early caries lesions.