You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
<strong>Fluoride</strong><br />
<strong>Guide</strong><br />
Earn<br />
3 CE credits<br />
This course was<br />
written for dentists,<br />
dental hygienists,<br />
and assistants.<br />
Written by Fiona M. Collins, BDS, MBA, MA<br />
and Michael Florman, DDS<br />
$49.00<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 1
Foreword<br />
Optimizing a fluoride protocol for individuals at dental caries risk is the most important<br />
measure that can be done to prevent future and arrest current disease. However, fluoride<br />
therapy remains <strong>com</strong>plex and controversial. Since the introduction of water fluoridation,<br />
fluoride supplements, and topical fluoride therapies in the late 1940s, the mechanisms of<br />
action, dosages and delivery systems have been debated and have evolved.<br />
Originally, the mechanisms of fluoride action were ascribed solely to reducing enamel<br />
solubility. Now, other mechanisms such as fluoride’s effect on remineralization and<br />
its effect on bacterial metabolism also are recognized. Similarly, the initial dosage of<br />
fluoride supplements was empirical, based on simulating fluoride exposure from optimally<br />
fluoridated water. As a result of epidemiologic studies showing mild fluorosis in some<br />
children with the original dosage and the fact that fluoride is now a ubiquitous part of<br />
a child’s diet, the fluoride supplement dosage has been altered several times over the<br />
past 30 years. These issues of dosage are further <strong>com</strong>pounded by epidemiologic studies<br />
showing changing prevalence of caries and fluorosis.<br />
Topical fluoride use in preschool children, as well, has evolved. New modalities, such as<br />
fluoride varnishes, have be<strong>com</strong>e more prevalent for office treatment for children because of<br />
the safety of premeasured doses, ease of application and better patient acceptance.<br />
Overlaying both the issues of topical fluoride therapy and fluoride supplement use is the<br />
current focus on individualized therapy for patients based on caries risk. One should no<br />
longer prescribe fluoride supplements or perform a professionally applied topical fluoride<br />
treatment without considering an individual’s caries risk. Recent re<strong>com</strong>mendations suggest<br />
limited use of fluoride for those at low caries risk, but significantly more frequency and<br />
intensity for those at high risk.<br />
This <strong>Fluoride</strong> <strong>Guide</strong> addresses the current concepts of fluoride mechanism, systemic and<br />
topical therapy based on the best evidence in the literature. Not only does the <strong>Guide</strong><br />
provide scientific rationale, it also offers the dental provider options, based on efficacy<br />
for systemic fluoride, office treatments and home-use fluoride products.<br />
Dr. Norman Tinanoff<br />
Chairman of the Department of Health Promotion and Policy,<br />
University of Maryland
Educational Objectives<br />
The overall goal of this article is to provide the reader with information on the use of<br />
systemic and topical fluorides for caries prevention.<br />
Upon <strong>com</strong>pletion of this course, the dental professional will be able to do the following:<br />
1. List intentional and unintentional sources of systemic fluoride.<br />
2. List and describe caries risk factors and the ADA re<strong>com</strong>mendations for in-office topical<br />
fluorides corresponding to different risk levels.<br />
3. List and describe the considerations involved in selecting in-office and home-use topical<br />
fluorides.<br />
4. List and describe the various home-use topical fluorides available and the clinical<br />
efficacy of each.<br />
Abstract<br />
Water fluoridation heralded the use of fluoride as an anti-caries agent. Since that time,<br />
both systemic and topical fluorides have be<strong>com</strong>e available and the use of fluorides<br />
has contributed greatly to reducing the level of caries seen in the population. Systemic<br />
fluoride supplements are available as tablets and drops, for use in accordance with the<br />
re<strong>com</strong>mendations on fluoride supplement dosing. Vehicles for topical fluorides include<br />
in-office fluoride varnishes, gels, and foams, and home-use fluoride dentifrices, rinses and<br />
prescription products. The primary mechanisms of action involved with the use of topical<br />
fluorides are the prevention of demineralization and promotion of remineralization, by<br />
ensuring the ready availability of intra-oral fluoride.<br />
Considerations in selecting an appropriate in-office and home-use topical fluoride protocol<br />
for individual patients include the patient’s age, caries risk level, exposure to fluoride<br />
from all sources, and the current re<strong>com</strong>mendations on professionally-applied topical<br />
fluorides. Other important considerations include product efficacy and safety, the patient’s<br />
dental status as well as <strong>com</strong>pliance with brushing and age-appropriate use of fluoride<br />
toothpaste, and clinician and patient preferences.
Introduction<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> has been used in the United States as an anti-caries agent since the 1940s,<br />
when water fluoridation was first introduced. Since then, numerous agents have be<strong>com</strong>e<br />
available for both the systemic and topical applications of fluoride.<br />
Currently available fluorides include sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate,<br />
acidulated phosphate fluoride and stannous fluoride. In addition to its use as a caries<br />
preventive to help prevent demineralization and aid remineralization, fluoride is used for<br />
the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity.<br />
The focus of this guide is on the anti-caries benefits of fluoride. Systemic and topical<br />
fluorides will be addressed, including the mechanisms of action, categories of fluoride<br />
products and evidence for their use, as well as current re<strong>com</strong>mendations on systemic and<br />
topical fluorides.<br />
Systemic fluoride<br />
Intentional sources of systemic fluoride for the prevention of caries include fluoridated<br />
water and fluoride supplements. Inadvertent (unintentional) sources include naturally occurring<br />
fluoride in well water, fluoride toothpaste, brewed tea, bottled water, drinks and<br />
goods processed using fluoridated water, and foods such as fish. In addition, certain<br />
medications contain fluoride. (Table 1)<br />
Table 1. Sources of systemic fluoride<br />
Intentional<br />
Fluoridated water<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> supplements<br />
Fluoridated salt<br />
Fluoridated milk<br />
Fluoridated foods<br />
Unintentional<br />
High fluoride level well water<br />
Foods containing fluoride<br />
Home-use topical fluoride products,<br />
including fluoride toothpaste<br />
Medications containing fluoride<br />
High fluoride level bottled water<br />
Water fluoridation<br />
Water fluoridation was first introduced in the 1940s, 1 and its use has resulted in substantial<br />
declines in caries rates. Water fluoridation, as a public health measure, is achieved<br />
through the addition of fluoride at water plants, typically to obtain a level of 1 ppm<br />
fluoride in drinking water. In other areas where the level of fluoride is substantially higher<br />
than the re<strong>com</strong>mended level, excess fluoride can be removed during processing.<br />
2 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
<strong>Fluoride</strong>-enriched salt<br />
Fluoridated salt has been used in several areas of the world, including parts of Europe<br />
and Latin America. A recent review of the literature led to the determination that there are<br />
no randomized, controlled clinical trials on the use of fluoridated salt to enable conclusions<br />
to be drawn as to its efficacy. The same reviewer located two studies on fluoridated<br />
milk, one of which showed, at the conclusion of the study, a significant reduction<br />
in caries in children age 8 after three years of use. 2<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> supplements<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> supplements can be given to at-risk children as drops, lozenges or tablets, with<br />
the dose varying with the level of fluoride contained in the domestic water supply and<br />
age of the child. The use of fluoride supplements by pregnant women does not result in<br />
any benefit for the baby.<br />
• Current re<strong>com</strong>mendations from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American<br />
Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatrics are to start fluoride<br />
supplements, if required, at 6 months 3,4 (Table 2)<br />
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that fluoride supplements<br />
be given to children living in areas with suboptimal water fluoridation who<br />
are at high risk of caries 5<br />
• Chewing or sucking fluoride tablets and lozenges prior to swallowing will maximize<br />
the effect of these supplements by providing an additional topical effect.<br />
Table 2. Re<strong>com</strong>mended fluoride supplement dosing (mg/day)<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> in domestic water supply<br />
Age of Child < 0.3 ppm 0.3-0.6 ppm > 0.6 ppm<br />
Up to 6 months None None None<br />
6 months to 3 years 0.25 mg/day None None<br />
3-6 years 0.5 mg/day 0.25 mg/day None<br />
6-16 years 1.0 mg/day 0.5 mg/day None<br />
Systemic fluoride and mechanisms of action<br />
During tooth development, the cumulative ingestion of fluoride prior to pre-eruptive<br />
enamel maturation results in fluoride ions replacing hydroxyl ions and the formation of<br />
fluorapatite crystals instead of hydroxyapatite crystals. 6 (Figure 1) The fluorapatite crystals<br />
are smaller and stronger than hydroxyapatite crystals and are more resistant to demineralization<br />
associated with the dental caries process. Recent reviews have suggested that the<br />
effect of fluoride, including that contained in supplements, foods and drinks, is mainly the<br />
result of its topical effect. 7,8,9<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 3
Figure 1. Crystal formation and fluoride substitution<br />
Hydroxyapatite<br />
Ca ++<br />
O –<br />
– O P O –<br />
OHCa ++ O<br />
Substitution<br />
of fluoride<br />
Fluorapatite<br />
Ca ++<br />
O –<br />
– O P O –<br />
FCa ++ O<br />
Ingested fluoride works through a number of mechanisms:<br />
• Systemic fluoride use results in a concentration of fluoride of 1,000 – 2,000 ppm in<br />
the outer layer of the enamel<br />
• The remainder of the enamel contains about 20 –100 ppm<br />
• Pre-eruptively, formed enamel is bathed in plasma that contains fluoride and contributes<br />
to the outer fluoride-rich layer<br />
• Post-eruptively, the enamel is bathed in fluoride contained in saliva and crevicular<br />
fluid, that was derived from systemically absorbed (ingested) fluoride<br />
• Both the fluoride-rich layer and the inner layers of the enamel containing 20 – 100<br />
ppm fluoride are still susceptible to acid attacks 10<br />
• Ongoing caries prevention from fluoridated water and other fluoride-containing drinks<br />
and/or foods also occurs as a result of their direct topical effect with some retention<br />
of fluoride intra-orally on the teeth and in dental biofilm (plaque).<br />
Inadvertent ingestion of excessive amounts of fluoride during enamel development,<br />
from all sources <strong>com</strong>bined, can result in fluorosis and is dependent on the dose, age of<br />
the child and duration of excessive fluoride ingestion. A risk of fluorosis with regular use of<br />
fluoride supplements and toothpaste has been found, underscoring the importance of total<br />
fluoride ingestion when prescribing supplements. 11<br />
Fluorosis<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> sources that may contribute to a high total level of fluoride ingested, and therefore<br />
fluorosis, include high-fluoride-level well water, foods and drinks containing high levels<br />
of fluoride, the repeated ingestion of fluoride intended for topical use only and certain<br />
medications.<br />
• Mild fluorosis results in white mottled areas of enamel as a result of hypomineralization,<br />
which can be a cosmetic concern in the anterior dentition Severe fluorosis can<br />
result in pitted and malformed areas of enamel, brittle enamel, breakdown of areas of<br />
enamel and teeth with abnormal morphology<br />
• Fluorosis seen in the United States is generally very mild or mild 12<br />
• Severe fluorosis is more <strong>com</strong>mon in areas with high-fluoride-level well water<br />
• For fluorosis to occur, excess fluoride must be ingested prior to pre-eruptive enamel<br />
maturation; ingestion after this developmental phase cannot result in fluorosis<br />
• Fluorosis as a result of excess ingestion of fluoride from age 6 onward is not a concern<br />
as pre-eruptive enamel maturation of the anterior (and majority) of the dentition<br />
has been <strong>com</strong>pleted by then and for all of the dentition by age 8<br />
• Topical fluorides are relevant for fluorosis only if inadvertently swallowed.<br />
4 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
Topical fluorides<br />
Topical fluorides are available as in-office fluorides and home-use fluorides. Topical<br />
fluorides act intra-orally by:<br />
• Providing periodic high doses of fluoride (in-office)<br />
• Providing low regular doses of fluoride (home-use).<br />
Topical fluorides available in the United States include:<br />
• Sodium fluoride<br />
• Sodium monofluorophosphate<br />
• Acidulated phosphate fluoride (or acidulated sodium fluoride)<br />
• Stannous fluoride<br />
• <strong>Fluoride</strong> from glass ionomer cements<br />
• Other fluoride-releasing dental materials.<br />
Acidulated formulations were first investigated with the goal of increasing fluoride<br />
uptake and ion exchange through the use of a low pH. These included phosphate to<br />
prevent dissolution of dental hard tissues. 13,14 Other investigators focused on formulations<br />
that had the potential to bind the fluoride to the tooth surface or to prolong the<br />
application for greater fluoride release and availability.<br />
Caries and the mechanism of action of topical fluoride<br />
Dental caries is a multifactorial infectious disease that always requires the presence<br />
of cariogenic bacteria – primarily mutans streptococci (Streptococcus mutans and S.<br />
sobrinus) as well as lactobacilli. These bacteria metabolize fermentable carbohydrates,<br />
producing acid that is capable of demineralizing dental hard tissues at below pH 5.5,<br />
under conditions favoring this. During acid attacks, subsurface dissolution occurs at pH<br />
3.8 – 4.8, with the loss of calcium and phosphate ions from the crystals. The intra-oral<br />
pH rebounds approximately 30 minutes after an acid attack, during which time remineralization<br />
with calcium phosphate and fluoride ions occurs at the site of demineralization.<br />
During acid attacks, subsurface dissolution occurs at pH 3.8 – 4.8,<br />
with demineralization and the loss of calcium and phosphate ions<br />
from the crystals. In dentin, unhindered disease progression is<br />
more rapid due to collagen fibril degradation.<br />
As a result of repeated episodes of demineralization (and in the absence of remineralization),<br />
white spots may appear due to subsurface demineralization. In orthodontic patients,<br />
these white spots can be found adjacent to brackets in particular and are referred<br />
to as orthodontic decalcifications. 15 Unhindered, once sufficient subsurface structure has<br />
been lost, the surface collapses and cavitation occurs. Disease progression is more rapid<br />
in dentin as demineralization of the dentin is followed by enzymatic degradation of the<br />
exposed collagen fibrils. 16,17 (Figure 2, 3)<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 5
Figure 2. Caries process: demineralization and remineralization<br />
pH<br />
Demineralization<br />
pH<br />
Remineralization<br />
Ca ++<br />
PO 4<br />
PO 4<br />
Ca ++ PO 4<br />
Acid Attack<br />
Ca ++<br />
Ca ++ PO 4<br />
Drop in pH as a result of an acid attack results in loss of ions and demineralization of the<br />
tooth structure; under favorable conditions, this is followed by the migration of ions to the site of the<br />
lesion and remineralization.<br />
Figure 3. Destructive phase of the caries process in dentin<br />
Demineralization<br />
Degradation of<br />
collagen fibrils<br />
Ca ++<br />
PO 4<br />
+<br />
Ca ++<br />
PO 4<br />
Drop in pH as a result of an acid attack results in loss of ions and demineralization of the tooth<br />
structure; if the lesion is not remineralized, this is followed by degradation of the exposed collagen<br />
fibrils resulting in more rapid progression of caries in dentin than in enamel.<br />
Anti-caries benefit of fluoride<br />
The anti-caries benefit derived from topical fluorides can be attributed primarily to the<br />
prevention of demineralization and the promotion of remineralization. Ensuring the<br />
ready availability of intra-oral fluoride helps prevent demineralization from occurring<br />
and, should it occur, aids remineralization. The application of high concentrations of<br />
topical fluoride results in the formation of alkali-soluble calcium fluoride-like globules at<br />
the tooth surface, the amount being influenced by the length of application and the concentration<br />
of fluoride used. These globules act as a fluoride reservoir and have been<br />
observed with scanning electron microscopy. 18,19,20 It is believed that the phosphate<br />
associated with these globules is responsible for their stability at a normal pH. When<br />
6 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
acid attacks occur, the globules start to break down and release calcium, phosphate<br />
and fluoride, resulting in a higher concentration of these ions at the tooth surface than<br />
internally. These then migrate to demineralized sites and remineralize these defects,<br />
also forming fluoridated hydroxyapatite. (Figure 4)<br />
At lower concentrations of topical fluoride (as used in dentifrices and rinses), fluoride<br />
is retained in solution in saliva as well as being retained as alkali-soluble calcium<br />
fluoride. Thus, topical fluorides result in the retention of fluoride on the tooth surface; in<br />
saliva and dental plaque; and on intra-oral soft tissues, especially the tongue and lower<br />
posterior vestibule of the mouth. 18,19,21<br />
Figure 4. <strong>Fluoride</strong> adsorption and caries control<br />
Ca ++<br />
F-<br />
Acid Attack<br />
F-<br />
F-<br />
F-<br />
Ca ++ PO 4<br />
PO 4<br />
F-<br />
Acid Attack<br />
F-<br />
F-<br />
High concentrations of topical fluorides result in the formation of calcium fluoride-like globules. These are<br />
stable until exposed to acid, when they release calcium, phosphate and fluoride. Low concentrations<br />
of topical fluorides also result in the presence of bioavailable fluoride in plaque, saliva and oral mucosa.<br />
Together, these mechanisms provide for reservoirs of fluoride available during acid attacks.<br />
Topical fluoride is also believed to inhibit caries activity through bacterial inhibition. 16 (Figure 5)<br />
Figure 5. Bacterial inhibition<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong>-induced<br />
inhibition<br />
of enzymes<br />
responsible for<br />
carbohydrate<br />
metabolism<br />
Hydrogen fluoride<br />
molecules enter<br />
the bacterial cell<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> and hydrogen<br />
dissociate, enabling fluoride<br />
activity inside the cell<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> <strong>com</strong>bines with hydrogen and then enters the bacterial cell. Following entry into the cell, the fluoride and<br />
hydrogen dissociate and the fluoride inhibits enyzmes involved in bacterial metabolic processes; this includes inhibition of<br />
enolase that metabolizes fermentable carbohydrates, thereby reducing the production of acid involved in the caries process.<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 7
Most of the topical effect of fluoride is due to the presence of available fluoride rather<br />
than the influence of fluoride uptake during fluoride therapy (in-office or home-use). As<br />
previously mentioned, ingested fluoride also contributes to the topical effect of fluorides.<br />
Omitting plaque removal with a professional prophylaxis prior to the use of in-office topical<br />
fluorides has been found to still result in the formation of calcium fluoride-like globules<br />
at the tooth surface and, in fact, to increase fluoride retention and the efficacy of fluoride<br />
therapy. Regular rinsing with fluoride in the presence of plaque has been shown to result<br />
in the deposition of alkali-soluble (available) fluoride. 22,23,24<br />
Most of the topical effect of fluoride is due to the presence<br />
of available fluoride.<br />
In-office fluorides<br />
In-office fluorides are available as varnishes, gels, foams and rinses. These differ by type<br />
of fluoride, concentration, and method and length of application. (Table 3)<br />
Table 3. <strong>Fluoride</strong> concentration in ppm fluoride<br />
5% sodium fluoride varnish 22,600 ppm<br />
APF gels and foams<br />
12,300 ppm<br />
Sodium fluoride gels and foams 9,050 ppm<br />
Dual rinses<br />
3,300 ppm<br />
The selection, use and frequency of use of in-office fluorides for an individual patient<br />
should be based on his or her risk level, and should consider ADA re<strong>com</strong>mendations; 25 patient<br />
age; product efficacy, clinical support and safety; ease of use and patient preference.<br />
Varnishes<br />
In the United States, fluoride varnish is available as 5% sodium fluoride, equivalent to<br />
22,600 ppm fluoride. While the FDA has cleared varnish as a device for the relief of<br />
hypersensitivity and as a cavity liner, the vast majority of clinical trials, evidence-based<br />
studies and the major use worldwide is as an in-office topical fluoride for the prevention<br />
of dental caries. In addition, the American Dental Association re<strong>com</strong>mends the use<br />
of 5% sodium fluoride varnish for caries prevention for children of all ages (including<br />
children under 6 years of age) and for adults. Both tinted and white/clear versions are<br />
available in tubes and/or unit doses. Studies have demonstrated patient preference for<br />
white/clear varnish due to the improved esthetics while the varnish remains on the teeth,<br />
while clinicians have found the use of unit doses simplifies application, results in the use<br />
of a defined amount of varnish and reduces any risk of cross-contamination. Application<br />
frequencies of twice or four times per year have been advocated, as well as more<br />
frequently than four times per year in some cases of early childhood caries. 26,27<br />
8 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
The American Dental Association re<strong>com</strong>mends the use of 5% sodium fluoride<br />
varnish for caries prevention for children of all ages and for adults.<br />
Clinical effectiveness<br />
Five percent sodium fluoride varnish has been found to be effective in reducing caries in the<br />
primary dentition – including early childhood caries – and the permanent dentition. 28,29,30,31<br />
Trials and studies have demonstrated reductions in coronal and root caries as well as<br />
recurrent caries. One meta-analysis by Marinho et al. pooled data from clinical studies of<br />
at least one year’s duration in patients under age 17 who were blinded or double-blinded<br />
and met all criteria. They found an overall caries reduction in the primary dentition (dmfs)<br />
of 33%, with a range of 19 – 48%, and in the permanent dentition (DMFS) of 46%, with<br />
a range of 30 – 63%. 32 An earlier, smaller meta-analysis with fewer studies had yielded a<br />
caries reduction of 38% in children (Helfenstein and Steiner). 33 In an open study, Weinstein<br />
et al. found a significant increase in the reversal of enamel decalcifications in children with<br />
early childhood caries. 34 Studies using 5% sodium fluoride varnish have also reported on its<br />
effectiveness in reducing orthodontic decalcification. 35<br />
Table 4. Overview of sodium fluoride varnish clinical efficacy<br />
Study<br />
Caries reduction<br />
Marinho et al. Meta-analysis 33% dmfs reduction (19% to 48%)<br />
46% DMFS reduction ( 30% to 63%)<br />
Helfenstein, Steiner Meta-analysis 38% reduction<br />
Holm et al. 36 Pre-school children 44% dmft reduction<br />
Weinstein et al. Early childhood caries 51% reversal of enamel decalcification<br />
(open study)<br />
The high level of fluoride and prolonged fluoride release <strong>com</strong>pared to other inoffice<br />
topical fluorides are factors considered to result in the high caries reductions that<br />
have been found with this vehicle.<br />
Gels and foams<br />
Gels and foams are available as acidulated phosphate fluoride and as sodium fluoride.<br />
Acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gels and foams contain 12,300 ppm fluoride,<br />
and neutral sodium fluoride gels contain approximately 9,000 ppm fluoride. These are<br />
available as either a four-minute or a one-minute application:<br />
• There is clinical support and evidence for the efficacy of four minute gel applications<br />
• There is insufficient evidence of caries efficacy for a one-minute application of gel or<br />
foam<br />
• Foam has the advantage of resulting in a lower dose of applied fluoride <strong>com</strong>pared<br />
to gel, reducing the risk of ingestion.<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 9
The American Dental Association re<strong>com</strong>mends the use of 4-minute fluoride gel in<br />
children age 6 and older and in adults. The use of in-office fluoride gels and foams is<br />
not re<strong>com</strong>mended for children under age 6, who are at greater risk of fluoride ingestion<br />
during application and have less ability to spit out excess afterward.<br />
Clinical efficacy<br />
In a meta-analysis of fluoride gels, a caries reduction average of 21% was found (range<br />
of 14 – 28%) across 14 placebo-controlled studies. 37 A separate systematic review of<br />
23 trials (some of which did not have placebo controls) found a caries reduction (DMFS)<br />
average of 28% (range of 19 – 37%). 38 It was also concluded in these studies that there<br />
was insufficient evidence of any effect in the primary dentition. A systematic review by<br />
van Rijkom et al. of clinical trials using acidulated phosphate gels found an average<br />
reduction of 22%, with greater reductions for higher caries incidence patients than for<br />
lower caries incidence patients. 39 An in vitro study by Garcia-Godoy et al. resulted in the<br />
conclusion that APF gel treatment with a one-minute or a four-minute application resulted<br />
in equivalent reductions in enamel lesion depths. 40 A recent study conducted on 3 –<br />
4-year-olds on the twice-annual use of in-office APF foam found a primary caries reduction<br />
(dmfs) of 24%, attributable to its effect on approximal surfaces and no effect on occlusal<br />
surfaces. 41 A second study by Jiang et al. assessed the efficacy of APF foam and<br />
gel in 6-7 year-old children in a 24-month clinical trial, and found these were equivalent<br />
with a 41% caries reduction on smooth surfaces for each. 42 (Table 5) The ADA does not<br />
re<strong>com</strong>mend or endorse the use of one-minute gels and does not re<strong>com</strong>mend the use of<br />
fluoride foams, due to the paucity of clinical evidence. 25<br />
Table 5. Clinical efficacy of fluoride gels and foams<br />
Study<br />
Caries reduction<br />
Marinho et al. Meta-analysis (gel) 21% DMFS reduction<br />
(14% to 28%)<br />
Marinho et al. Systematic review (gel) 28% DMFS reduction<br />
(19% to 37%)<br />
v Rijkom et al. Systematic review (gel) 22% average reduction<br />
Jiang et al. APF gel and foam <strong>com</strong>parison 41% caries reduction for each<br />
Jiang et al. Pre-school children (foam) 24% dmfs reduction<br />
In-office fluoride rinses<br />
In-office topical rinses are available as 2% sodium fluoride rinses and dual rinses containing<br />
stannous fluoride and acidulated phosphate fluoride. These should not be used<br />
in young children, due to the risk of ingestion.<br />
• There is limited in vitro data suggesting an effect for dual rinses<br />
• There is no clinical evidence for efficacy of these rinses<br />
• The American Dental Association does not re<strong>com</strong>mend the use of in-office fluoride<br />
rinses. 25<br />
10 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
Risk levels and ADA<br />
re<strong>com</strong>mendations for<br />
in-office fluorides<br />
Patients can be classified as being at low, moderate or high risk for caries at a given<br />
time. Low-risk patients are those who have no factors that may increase their risk of caries<br />
and who have had no incipient, cavitated or secondary carious lesions in the prior<br />
three years, according to the guidelines in the ADA re<strong>com</strong>mendations on professionally<br />
applied fluorides. All other patients are either moderate or high risk. (Table 6)<br />
Table 6. Moderate- and high-risk levels<br />
Moderate risk<br />
< 6 years of age No incipient/cavitated carious<br />
lesions during the last 3 years<br />
At least one risk factor<br />
6+ years of age one/two incipient/cavitated<br />
lesions in last 3 years<br />
and/or at least one risk factor<br />
High risk<br />
Any incipient/cavitated lesions<br />
in last 3 years and/or multiple<br />
risk factors<br />
3 or more incipient/cavitated<br />
carious lesions in the last 3 years<br />
and/or multiple risk factors<br />
Adapted from: Evidence-based Clinical Re<strong>com</strong>mendations: Professionally Applied Topical <strong>Fluoride</strong><br />
For moderate- and high-risk patients, the American Dental Association re<strong>com</strong>mendations<br />
are for the use of fluoride varnish in children under age 6 and either fluoride<br />
varnish or a four-minute gel in patients age 6 and over. The re<strong>com</strong>mended frequency<br />
of application for these patients is two to four times per year, depending on risk level. 25<br />
The ADA re<strong>com</strong>mendations do not include the use of foam specifically because there<br />
are few clinical trials conducted on foam to demonstrate its efficacy. However, those<br />
that were conducted, together with laboratory data, suggest that it may be equivalent to<br />
fluoride gel. For low-risk patients, in-office topical fluorides are not re<strong>com</strong>mended, and<br />
the use of fluoride dentifrice may suffice. Professional judgment is required for individual<br />
patients. 25 (Table 7)<br />
Risk factors are destructive factors in the caries process, while the use of fluoride<br />
and other preventives are protective factors. (Table 8)<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 11
Table 7. American Dental Association re<strong>com</strong>mendations<br />
Low-risk patients*<br />
Moderate-risk patients**<br />
High-risk patients<br />
< 6 years<br />
of age<br />
Professional fluoride<br />
may be of no benefit<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> varnish<br />
2 times per year<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> varnish<br />
2 - 4 times per year<br />
6 - 18 years<br />
of age<br />
Professional fluoride<br />
may be of no benefit<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> varnish or gel<br />
2 times per year<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> varnish or gel<br />
2 - 4 times per year<br />
18+ years<br />
of age<br />
Professional fluoride<br />
may be of no benefit<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> varnish or gel<br />
2 times per year<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> varnish or gel<br />
2 - 4 times per year<br />
* Use professional judgment. <strong>Fluoride</strong> dentifrice may be sufficient. **Moderate-risk may benefit from up to 4 times per<br />
year. Adapted from: Evidence-based Clinical Re<strong>com</strong>mendations: Professionally Applied Topical <strong>Fluoride</strong>.<br />
Table 8. Destructive (risk) and protective factors<br />
Risk factors<br />
Suboptimal fluoride exposure<br />
Poor oral hygiene<br />
Familial high caries rate<br />
Enamel defects<br />
Tobacco use<br />
Exposed roots<br />
Low SES<br />
Xerostomia<br />
High bacterial load<br />
High frequency sugar and other carbohydrate<br />
consumption<br />
Defective restorations<br />
Drug or alcohol abuse<br />
Orthodontic appliances<br />
Inability to perform adequate oral hygiene<br />
Protective factors<br />
Optimal fluoride exposure<br />
Use of xylitol<br />
High salivary flow<br />
Use of antimicrobials<br />
Home use of Recaldent-containing products<br />
Clinical examples<br />
Clinical examples of at-risk and high-risk patients can be found below.<br />
a. Patient with early childhood caries b. Orthodontic patient c. Patient with exposed roots<br />
Courtesy of Dr. N. Sue Seale Courtesy of Dr. Michael Florman Courtesy of Dr. Scott Froum<br />
12 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
Considerations for in-office<br />
and home-use fluorides<br />
In addition to the ADA re<strong>com</strong>mendations for professional fluorides, professional judgment,<br />
efficacy and safety, and other considerations contribute to the selection of in-office and<br />
home-use fluorides. These include pH, alcohol content, propensity for stain, and preferences.<br />
pH of topical fluorides<br />
The pH range of topical fluorides is approximately pH 3 – 7 (neutral). Acidulated<br />
phosphate fluoride (acidulated sodium fluoride) topicals are formulated for rapid uptake<br />
of fluoride; however, their use over time has the potential to etch and alter the surface<br />
of ceramics, resin-based <strong>com</strong>posites and<br />
glass ionomers. 43,44 Table 9. pH of fluoride products<br />
In addition, acidulated<br />
Product<br />
pH<br />
phosphate alters the surface of titanium<br />
1.23% APF gel, foam 3-4<br />
alloys, therefore caution is advised with respect<br />
Sodium fluoride varnish, gel, foam<br />
to use of these formulations in implant<br />
patients. 45 In patients for whom these are<br />
considerations, the use of neutral sodium<br />
fluoride products would be indicated.<br />
NaF and MFP dentifrices<br />
0.4% stannous dentifrice<br />
Sodium fluoride pastes, gels, rinses<br />
2.8-4<br />
Neutral<br />
Neutral<br />
Neutral<br />
APF (Rx) paste/gel 5.1-5.6<br />
Acidulated phosphate fluoride rinses 4<br />
Alcohol content<br />
While not a consideration for in-office topical fluorides or systemic fluoride, home-use<br />
fluoride rinses are available with an alcohol content range of 0 – 21.6%. Alcohol-containing<br />
rinses can result in irritation in some patients, and a drying sensation in patients<br />
with xerostomia, and should not be used by alcoholics or patients sensitive to alcohol. 46<br />
Rinses containing alcohol are generally not advised for use in children. The alcohol<br />
content of rinses can be found on the label, under the inactive ingredients.<br />
Extrinsic staining<br />
The potential for extrinsic staining of teeth is greater in patients with poor oral hygiene,<br />
smokers, red wine, tea and coffee drinkers, and with the use of stannous fluoride products.<br />
The staining propensity of products varies with formulation and can generally be<br />
controlled provided the patient performs excellent oral hygiene.<br />
Patient preferences and convenience<br />
Patient preference and convenience play important roles in the selection of home-use products,<br />
especially where patient <strong>com</strong>pliance plays a key role. The fluoride selected must be acceptable<br />
to the patient, with pleasant taste, texture, smell and vehicle. Patient <strong>com</strong>pliance must be considered<br />
with respect to frequency and regularity of use, ease of use, and length of application.<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 13
Home-use fluorides<br />
Home-use fluorides include fluoride dentifrices as well as over-the-counter and prescription<br />
gels, pastes, and rinses.<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> dentifrices<br />
The majority of over-the-counter dentifrices available in the United States and Canada<br />
contain 1,000 – 1,100 ppm fluoride, available as sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate<br />
and stannous fluoride, and have been found to be effective with these<br />
formulations. (Table 10)<br />
Table 10. 1,000 – 1,100 ppm fluoride dentifrices<br />
0.23 – 0.24% sodium fluoride<br />
0.76% sodium monofluorophosphate<br />
0.4% stannous fluoride<br />
Use of fluoride dentifrice twice daily provides a regular supply of fluoride that results<br />
in the presence of low levels of fluoride intra-orally on the teeth and soft tissues. It is<br />
re<strong>com</strong>mended to <strong>com</strong>mence use of a fluoride dentifrice in children at age 2, using only<br />
a pea-sized amount twice daily from the age of 2 and until reaching 6 years of age (due<br />
to the risk of fluorosis with excess ingestion). Children under the age of 6 should always<br />
be supervised while brushing (and may require supervision until 10 - 11 years of age),<br />
and they should expectorate and rinse after brushing with fluoride dentifrices. Extensive<br />
numbers of clinical trials on fluoride dentifrices have been conducted, documenting their<br />
anti-caries efficacy. There is strong evidence supporting their use, based on reviews by<br />
Twetman and by Topping and Assaf. 47,48<br />
Use of fluoride dentifrice twice daily provides a regular supply<br />
of fluoride that results in the presence of low levels of<br />
fluoride intra-orally on the teeth and soft tissues.<br />
Clinical efficacy<br />
The number of clinical trials conducted using fluoride dentifrices is extensive, with<br />
clinical trials conducted throughout the world. These have demonstrated a substantial<br />
anti-caries benefit with the use of fluoride dentifrices. Early studies were conducted<br />
in urban and rural <strong>com</strong>munities, in both cases demonstrating a substantial decline in<br />
caries with the use of fluoride dentifrices. 49 In one meta-analysis of 70 such trials that<br />
were conducted in children age 16 and under, in controlled, blinded conditions, an<br />
average reduction of 24% in DMFS was found (21% – 28%) across the studies, and<br />
varying with caries risk levels. This caries reduction benefit was found in subjects in<br />
14 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
fluoridated and non-fluoridated areas, with a greater caries reduction in higher risk<br />
individuals. 50 Caries efficacy with use of fluoride dentifrices has been demonstrated<br />
for children, adults, coronal and root caries. A root caries reduction (DFS) of 67%<br />
was found in a one-year study with fluoride dentifrice. 51 A recent study also found the<br />
addition of calcium and phosphate to a fluoride dentifrice resulted in an incremental<br />
reduction in root caries <strong>com</strong>pared to the control fluoride dentifrice. 52 A dose-response<br />
has also been found, with higher fluoride level dentifrices conferring greater anti-caries<br />
benefits than lower fluoride level dentifrices. 53, 54 Supervised daily brushing with fluoride<br />
dentifrice in school programs has also been found to be a successful methodology<br />
for the control of caries in school-age populations, including in high-risk children. 55,56,57<br />
Extensive numbers of clinical trials on fluoride dentifrices have been<br />
conducted, documenting their excellent anti-caries efficacy.<br />
Prescription pastes/gels<br />
Prescription home-use 1.1% sodium fluoride, equivalent to 5,000 ppm fluoride, is available<br />
as pastes containing a mild abrasive and as gels/liquids containing no abrasive.<br />
These can also be used in mouth trays for extended at-home application. Use of 1.1%<br />
sodium fluoride gel in trays has been found to be effective as a caries preventive in<br />
head and neck radiation (high-risk) patients suffering from xerostomia. 58 Patients using<br />
5,000 ppm fluoride gels and paste should expectorate after using them, without rinsing<br />
with water.<br />
Prescription pastes and gels are:<br />
• Formulations containing 5,000 ppm fluoride<br />
• Typically applied as brush-on pastes and gels<br />
• Typically used in place of regular dentifrice<br />
• Also available in an acidulated version (APF) targeting orthodontic patients.<br />
In a small study on available fluoride in proximal saliva and plaque following use<br />
of 5,000 ppm paste, it was found that rinsing after brushing with the paste reduced<br />
the available fluoride 2.4-fold <strong>com</strong>pared to expectorating only, underscoring the<br />
importance of following the instructions to expectorate only when using these prescription<br />
products. 59<br />
Clinical efficacy<br />
Use of 5,000 ppm fluoride has been found to be effective in reducing root caries. An<br />
early study by De Paola et al. demonstrated a 91% rate of arrestment for root caries lesions<br />
following one year of use of 1.1% sodium fluoride gel in trays. 60 A second study by<br />
Baysan et al. demonstrated 57% remineralization of root caries lesions over a six-month<br />
period of use of 5,000 ppm fluoride dentifrice. 61<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 15
<strong>Fluoride</strong> rinses<br />
Prescription and OTC fluoride rinses are available, variously utilizing sodium fluoride,<br />
acidulated phosphate fluoride and stannous fluoride. A dose-response relationship has<br />
been observed, with higher ppm fluoride rinses incrementally increasing the plaque<br />
and salivary fluoride levels. 62 A separate 24-hour study by Zero et al. found that nighttime<br />
fluoride use resulted in extended fluoride retention in whole saliva. 63<br />
Prescription rinse: 0.2% sodium fluoride rinse<br />
Prescription fluoride rinses are available as 0.2% sodium fluoride, equivalent to 920<br />
ppm fluoride. These are intended for weekly use and have been used in children<br />
over the age of six and in adults as caries preventives. Due to risk of ingestion, 0.2%<br />
sodium fluoride rinse is not intended for use in children under the age of six. The anticaries<br />
efficacy of weekly rinsing with 0.2% sodium fluoride has been demonstrated in<br />
numerous studies.<br />
Clinical support<br />
Heifetz et al. found significant reductions in caries in children using 0.2% sodium fluoride<br />
rinse. 64 In a study by Driscoll et al., caries reduction of up to 55% was demonstrated<br />
in schoolchildren rinsing once weekly at school during a 30-month period. 65 Seven<br />
years of rinsing weekly with 0.2% sodium fluoride rinse resulted in a 57.8% reduction in<br />
caries in the permanent dentition in another study. It was also concluded, however, that<br />
other factors contributed to the reductions, since reduced caries in the primary dentition<br />
was found that pre-dated rinsing. 66<br />
The anti-caries efficacy of weekly rinsing with 0.2% sodium fluoride<br />
has been demonstrated in numerous studies.<br />
Over-the-counter rinses<br />
0.05% sodium fluoride rinse<br />
Similar to the daily use of toothpaste, daily sodium fluoride rinsing has been shown in<br />
vivo to elevate salivary fluoride levels and plaque fluoride levels, an effect that disappears<br />
after ceasing to rinse daily. Children age 6 and over can use 0.05% sodium<br />
fluoride rinse daily; it is not re<strong>com</strong>mended for use in children under age 6 due to the<br />
risk of ingestion.<br />
Clinical support<br />
Significant caries reductions have been observed with daily rinsing with 0.05% sodium<br />
fluoride in subjects living in areas with up to 0.3 ppm fluoride in the water. 64 In his<br />
assessment, Ripa cited a 31% reduction in caries in non-fluoridated <strong>com</strong>munities. 67 A<br />
48-month study in an urban geriatric population <strong>com</strong>pared the use of placebo rinse,<br />
16 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
0.05% sodium fluoride mouth rinse and APF gel twice per year plus placebo rinse. It<br />
was found that reductions in new lesions were statistically similar for the <strong>com</strong>bination<br />
of APF gel plus placebo rinse and for 0.05% sodium fluoride rinse alone, while the<br />
reversal of lesions was greatest using the fluoride rinse. 68 A more recent study assessed<br />
arrestment of smooth-surface carious lesions in 11 – 15-year olds with use of 0.05%<br />
sodium fluoride rinse once daily, finding an arrestment rate of 84.4%. 69 Geiger et al.<br />
found reductions in white spot lesions (orthodontic decalcifications) following use of<br />
0.05% sodium fluoride rinse during orthodontic treatment. While <strong>com</strong>pliance issues in<br />
this study resulted in only 13% rinsing daily with the mouth rinse, a significant reduction<br />
in white spot lesions was found and correlated to the frequency of rinsing (daily as<br />
re<strong>com</strong>mended versus less frequently). 70 In reviewing the Cochrane Database clinical<br />
trials that addressed reductions in white spot lesions during fixed orthodontic appliance<br />
therapy, Benson et al. concluded that rinsing daily with 0.05% sodium fluoride rinse<br />
reduced the severity of enamel lesions adjacent to fixed appliances. 71<br />
The anti-caries efficacy of daily rinsing with 0.05% sodium fluoride<br />
has been demonstrated in numerous studies.<br />
0.02% sodium fluoride rinse<br />
Sodium fluoride rinses are available at 0.02% concentrations in the United States and<br />
Canada. These rinses should be used twice daily, given the lower concentration of fluoride,<br />
and are re<strong>com</strong>mended for use in children age 6 and over. In vitro fluoride uptake<br />
studies using 0.02% sodium fluoride rinse have shown superior fluoride uptake. No clinical<br />
trials have been published using this rinse.<br />
Acidulated phosphate fluoride/sodium fluoride rinses<br />
Acidulated phosphate (sodium) fluoride rinses are available in 0.044% and 0.021% concentrations,<br />
both available over-the-counter. These are also intended for use in children age<br />
6 and older and in adults. 0.044% acidulated phosphate fluoride has been re<strong>com</strong>mended<br />
mainly for orthodontic patients, and its daily use is clinically supported. 0.021% acidulated<br />
sodium fluoride is available for twice daily rinsing.<br />
Clinical efficacy<br />
One early study (1978) showed that 0.044% acidulated phosphate fluoride rinse<br />
reduced the development of white spots in orthodontic patients by up to 58%. 72<br />
Stannous fluoride rinses<br />
Stannous fluoride rinses at a concentration of 0.63% are available as prescription rinses,<br />
and they are then diluted to provide a 0.1% rinse. This was shown in an early study to<br />
be effective in reducing caries and inhibiting bacterial metabolism. 73<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 17
Table 11. Clinical support for fluoride rinses and for 5,000 ppm fluoride gel/paste<br />
5,000 ppm (Rx) sodium fluoride<br />
de Paola et al.<br />
Baysan et al.<br />
0.2% (Rx) sodium fluoride rinse<br />
Driscoll et al.<br />
Leverett et al.<br />
Study<br />
Root caries, 1-year<br />
study<br />
Root caries, 6-month<br />
study<br />
Schoolchildren, weekly<br />
rinsing, 30-month<br />
Weekly rinsing,<br />
7 years<br />
Caries reduction<br />
91% arrestment of root caries<br />
lesions<br />
57% remineralization of root<br />
caries lesions<br />
Up to 55% reduction<br />
57.8% reduction permanent<br />
dentition<br />
0.05% sodium fluoride rinse<br />
Ripa Coronal caries 31% caries reduction<br />
Wallace et al. Root caries Up to 71% reduction<br />
Heifetz et al. Coronal caries children Up to 40% reduction<br />
(permanent dentition)<br />
Duarte et al. Smooth surface, 11-15<br />
year olds<br />
0.044% APF rinse<br />
84.4% arrestment of carious<br />
lesions<br />
Hirschfield et al. Orthodontic patients Up to 58% reduced<br />
development of white spots<br />
Biofilm, rinsing and<br />
intra-oral fluoride<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> dentifrice use has greatly contributed to caries reductions for several decades and<br />
continues to provide anti-caries benefits. The presence of moderate amounts of biofilm does<br />
not deter fluoride from reaching the tooth surface, and fluoride has been shown to penetrate<br />
through and concentrate in light biofilm layers, increasing the retention of intra-oral fluoride. 74<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> dentifrice use has greatly contributed to caries reductions for<br />
several decades.<br />
Considerations include the assessed <strong>com</strong>pliance of the individual patient with appropriate<br />
brushing and use of a fluoride dentifrice, as well as his or her risk level. Non<strong>com</strong>pliant<br />
patients may brush inadequately or brush for an inadequate length of time, 75<br />
reducing the effectiveness of brushing and exposure to fluoride toothpaste. Post-brushing<br />
rinsing, which is standard practice for most patients, also removes fluoride that was<br />
18 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
just delivered by the dentifrice and reduces the amount of intra-oral available fluoride.<br />
Although no controlled clinical trials are available on its impact, post-brushing rinsing has<br />
been shown to reduce the level of intra-oral bioavailable fluoride. 76<br />
Post-brushing rinsing has been shown to reduce the level<br />
of intra-oral bioavailable fluoride.<br />
Zamataro et al. found a 250% reduction in intra-oral bioavailable fluoride as a<br />
result of rinsing with 15 ml of water after use of a standard dentifrice containing 1,100<br />
ppm fluoride. 76 Adjunctive use of fluoride rinses has been advocated for moderate- and<br />
high-risk patients, together with routine oral hygiene procedures, to increase the amount of<br />
available fluoride and increase protection against caries. 77,78 Increasing the flow rate of<br />
fluoride rinse has also been suggested as a possible mechanism to increase the amount of<br />
fluoride penetrating biofilm. 79<br />
Adjunctive use of fluoride rinses has been advocated for moderateand<br />
high-risk patients.<br />
Summary<br />
Successful fluoride preventive interventions began with the use of fluoridated water and<br />
fluoride dentifrices, and now include the use of professional topical fluorides as well as<br />
prescription pastes, gels and rinse and over-the-counter rinses. The individual patient’s risk<br />
level and age, and the product’s efficacy, clinical support and safety must be considered<br />
when determining the appropriate <strong>com</strong>bination of preventives. Other factors to consider<br />
include clinician and patient preferences and the specifics of a given formulation. The use<br />
of fluorides has contributed greatly to reducing the level of caries seen in the population<br />
and continues to do so.<br />
Author Profiles<br />
Fiona M. Collins, BDS, MBA, MA<br />
Dr. Collins earned her dental degree from Glasgow University and holds an MBA and MA from<br />
Boston University. She is a member of the American Dental Association and the Organization for<br />
Asepsis and Safety Procedures.<br />
Michael Florman, DDS<br />
Dr. Florman received his dental degree from Ohio State University and <strong>com</strong>pleted his orthodontic<br />
post graduate training at New York University. He is a member of the American Dental Association,<br />
California Dental Association, and the American Association of Orthodontists.<br />
Disclaimer<br />
The authors of this course have no <strong>com</strong>mercial ties with the sponsors or the providers of the unrestricted<br />
educational grant for this course.<br />
Reader Feedback<br />
We encourage your <strong>com</strong>ments on this or any PennWell course.<br />
For your convenience, an online feedback form is available at www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>.<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 19
Sources<br />
1 Dean HT, Arnold FA, Jay P, Knutson JW. Studies on mass control of dental caries through fluoridation of the public water<br />
supply. Public Health Rep. 1950;65:1403 – 38.<br />
2 Espelid I. Caries preventive effect of fluoride in milk, salt and tablets: a literature review. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent. 2009<br />
Sep;10(3):149 – 56.<br />
3 American Dental Association. ADA guide to dental therapeutics. 1st ed. Chicago: American Dental Association, 1998.<br />
4 American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. <strong>Guide</strong>line on <strong>Fluoride</strong> Therapy. 2008<br />
5 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Community water fluoridation: other fluoride products. Available at: http://<br />
www.cdc.gov/fluoridation/other.htm<br />
6 Aoba T. The effect of fluoride on apatite structure and growth. Crit Rev Oral Biol Med. 1997;8(2):136 – 53.<br />
7 Featherstone JD, Glena R, Shariati M, Shields CP. Dependence of in vitro demineralization of apatite and remineralization<br />
of dental enamel on fluoride concentration. J Dent Res. 1990;69:620 – 25.<br />
8 Hellwig E, Lennon AM. Systemic versus topical fluoride. Caries Res. 2004 May-June;38(3):258 – 62.<br />
9 Featherstone JD. Prevention and reversal of dental caries: role of low level fluoride. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 1999<br />
Feb;27(1):31 – 40.<br />
10 Featherstone JDB. The science and practice of caries prevention. J Am Dent Assoc. 2000;131:887-99.<br />
11 Pendrys DG, Katz RV, Morse DE. Risk factors for enamel fluorosis in a nonfluoridated population. Am J Epidemiol.<br />
1996;143(8):<br />
12 Beltrán-Aguilar ED, Barker LK, Canto MT, Dye BA, Gooch BF, et al. Surveillance for Dental Caries, Dental Sealants, Tooth<br />
Retention, Edentulism, and Enamel Fluorosis --- United States, 1988--1994 and 1999--2002. MMWR. 2005;54(03):1-44.<br />
13 Brudevold F, Savory A, Gardner DE, Spinelli M, Speirs R. A study of acidulated fluoride solutions. I. In vitro effects on<br />
enamel. Arch Oral Biol. 1963;8:167 – 77.<br />
14 Pameijer JHN, Brudevold F, Hunt EE. A study of acidulated fluoride solutions: the cariostatic effect of repeated topical<br />
sodium fluoride application with and without phosphate. Arch Oral Biol. 1963;8:183-185 .<br />
15 Gorelick L, et al. Incidence of white spot formation after bonding and banding. Am J Orthod. 1982; 81(2):93 – 98.<br />
16 Featherstone JD. The science and practice of caries prevention. J Am Dent Assoc. 2000;131:887 – 99.<br />
17 Kawasaki K, Featherstone JDB. Effects of Collagenase on Root Demineralization. J Dent Res. 1997;76(1):588-95.<br />
18 Hellwig E, Klimek J, Albert G. In vivo retention of KOH soluble and firmly bound fluoride in demineralized dental enamel.<br />
Dtsch Zahnarztl Z. 1989;44(3):173 – 76.<br />
19 Ogaard B, The cariostatic mechanism of fluoride. Compend Contin Educ Dent. 1999;20(1 Suppl):10 – 17.<br />
20 Arends J, Christoffersen J. Nature and role of loosely bound fluoride in dental caries. J Dent Res. 1990 Feb;69 Spec<br />
No:601-5; discussion 634 – 36.<br />
21 Zero DT, Raubertas RF, Pedersen AM, Fu J, Hayes AL, Featherstone JD. Studies of fluoride retention by oral soft tissues after<br />
the application of home-use topical fluorides. J Dent Res. 1992 Sep;71(9):1546 – 52.<br />
22 Hellwig E, Klimek J, Schmidt HF, Egerer R. <strong>Fluoride</strong> uptake in plaque-covered enamel after treatment with the fluoride lacquer<br />
Duraphat. J Dent Res. 1985;64(8):1080 – 83.<br />
23 Borro Bijella MFT, Bijella VT, Lopes ES, de Magalhase Bastos E. Comparison of dental prophylaxis and toothbrushing prior<br />
to topical APF applications. Comm Dent Oral Epidemiol. 2006;13(4):208 – 11. Available at http://www3.interscience.<br />
wiley.<strong>com</strong>/journal/120033407/abstract.<br />
24 Hellwig E, Klimek J, Wagner H. The influence of plaque on reaction mechanism of MFP and NaF in vivo. J Dent Res. 1987<br />
Jan;66(1):46 – 49.<br />
25 American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs. Professionally applied topical fluoride: evidence-based clinical<br />
re<strong>com</strong>mendations. J Am Dent Assoc. 2006;137:1151 – 59. Available at http://jada.ada.org.<br />
26 Petersson LG, Arthursson L, Östberg C, Jönsson P, Gleerup A. Caries-inhibiting effects of different modes of Duraphat varnish<br />
reapplication: a 3-year radiographic study. Caries Res. 1991;25:70 – 73.<br />
27 Sköld L, Sundquist B, Eriksson B, Edeland C. Four-year study of caries inhibition of intensive Duraphat application in 11 –<br />
15-year-old children. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 1994;22:8 –12.<br />
28 Clark DC, Stamm JW, Tessier C, Robert G. The final results of the Sherbrooke-Lac Mégantic fluoride varnish study. J Can<br />
Dent Assoc. 1987;53:919 – 22.<br />
29 Peyron M, Matsson L, Birkhed D. Progression of approximal caries in primary molars and the effect of Duraphat treatment.<br />
Scand J Dent Res. 1992;100:314 – 18.<br />
30 Weintraub JA, Ramos-Gomez F, Jue B, et al. <strong>Fluoride</strong> varnish efficacy in preventing early childhood caries. J Dent Res.<br />
2006;85(2):172 – 76.<br />
31 Petersson LG, Arthursson L, Östberg C, Jönsson P, Gleerup A. Caries-inhibiting effects of different modes of Duraphat varnish<br />
reapplication: a 3-year radiographic study. Caries Res 1991;25:70 – 73.<br />
32 Marinho VC, Higgins JP, Logan S, Sheiham A. <strong>Fluoride</strong> varnishes for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents.<br />
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2002;(3):CD002279.<br />
33 Helfenstein U, Steiner M. <strong>Fluoride</strong> varnishes (Duraphat): a meta-analysis. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 1994;22:1 – 5.<br />
34 Weinstein P, Domoto P, Koday M, Leroux B. Results of a promising open trial to prevent baby bottle tooth decay: a fluoride<br />
varnish study. ASDC J Dent Child. 1994;61(5-6):338-41.<br />
35 Vivaldi-Rodrigues G, Demito CF, Bowman SJ, Ramos AL. The effectiveness of a fluoride varnish in preventing the development<br />
of white spot lesions. World J Orthod. 2006 Summer;7(2):138 – 44.<br />
36 Holm AK. Effect of fluoride varnish (Duraphat) in preschool children. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 1979;7(5):241-5.<br />
37 Marinho VC, Higgins JP, Logan S, Sheiham A. <strong>Fluoride</strong> gels for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents.<br />
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2002;(2):CD002280.<br />
38 Marinho VC, Higgins JP, Logan S, Sheiham A. Systematic review of controlled trials on the effectiveness of fluoride gels for<br />
the prevention of dental caries in children. J Dent Educ. 2003 Apr;67(4): 448 – 58.<br />
39 van Rijkom HM, Truin GJ, van’t Hof MA. A meta-analysis of clinical studies on the caries-inhibiting effect of fluoride gel treatment.<br />
Caries Res. 1998;32:83 – 92.<br />
40 Garcia-Godoy F, Hicks MJ, Flaitz CM, Berg JH. Acidulated phosphate fluoride treatment and formation of caries-like lesions<br />
in enamel: effect of application time. J Clin Pediatr Dent. 1995 Winter;19(2):105 – 10.<br />
41 Jiang H, Bian Z, Tai BJ, Du MQ, Peng B. The effect of a bi-annual professional application of APF foam on dental caries<br />
20 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
increment in primary teeth: 24-month clinical trial. J Dent Res. 2005 Mar;84(3):265 – 68.<br />
42 Jiang H, Tai B, Du M, Peng B. Effect of professional application of APF foam on caries reduction in permanent first molars in<br />
6-7-year-old children: 24-month clinical trial. J Dent. 2005;33(6):469-73.<br />
43 El-Badrawy WA, McComb D. Effect of home-use fluoride gels on resin-modified glass-ionomer cements. Oper Dent.<br />
1998;23(1):2-9.<br />
44 El-Badrawy WA, McComb D, Wood RE. Effect of home-use fluoride gels on glass ionomer and <strong>com</strong>posite restorations. Dent<br />
Mater. 1993;9(1):63-7.<br />
45 Matono Y, Nakagawa M, Matsuya S, Ishikawa K, Terada Y. Corrosion behavior of pure titanium and titanium alloys in<br />
various concentrations of Acidulated Phosphate <strong>Fluoride</strong> (APF) solutions. Dent Mater J. 2006 Mar;25(1):104–112.<br />
46 Eldridge K, Finnie S, Stephens J, Mauad A, Munoz C, Kettering J. Efficacy of an alcohol-free chlorhexidine mouthrinse as an<br />
antimicrobial agent. J Pros Dent. 1998;80(6):685-690.<br />
47 Twetman S. Caries prevention with fluoride toothpaste in children: an update. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent. 2009 Sep;10(3):162 – 67.<br />
48 Topping G, Assaf A. Strong evidence that daily use of fluoride toothpaste prevents caries. Evid Based Dent. 2005;6(2):32.<br />
49 Hargreaves JA, Cleaton-Jones PE. Dental caries changes in the Scottish Isle of Lewis. Caries Res. 1990;24(2):137-41.<br />
50 Marinho VC, Higgins JP, Sheiham A, Logan S. <strong>Fluoride</strong> toothpastes for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents.<br />
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2003;(1):CD002278.<br />
51 Jensen ME, Kohout F. The effect of a fluoridated dentifrice on root and coronal caries in an older adult population. J Am<br />
Dent Assoc. 1988 Dec;117(7):829 – 32.<br />
52 Papas A, Russell D, 5D” Singh M, Kent R, Triol C, Winston A. Caries clinical trial of a remineralising toothpaste in radiation<br />
patients. Gerodontol. 2008;25(2):76-88.<br />
53. ten Cate JM, Exterkate RA, Buijs MJ. The relative efficacy of fluoride toothpastes assessed with pH cycling. Caries Res.<br />
2006;40(2):136-41.<br />
54. Steiner M, Helfenstein U, Menghini G. Effect of 1,000 ppmrelative to 250 ppm fluoride toothpaste: a meta-analysis. Am J<br />
Dent. 2004 Apr; 17(2):85-8.<br />
55. Al-Jundi SH, Hammad M, Alwaeli H. The efficacy of a school-based caries preventive program: a 4-year study. Int J Dent<br />
Hyg. 2006 Feb;4(1):30-4.<br />
56. Jackson RJ, Newman HN, Smart GJ, et al. The effects of a supervised toothbrushing programme on the caries increment of<br />
primary school children, initially aged 5-6 years. Caries Res. 2005 Mar-Apr; 39(2):108-15.<br />
57. Curnow MM, Pine CM, Burnside G, Nicholson JA, Chesters RK, Huntington E. A randomised controlled trial of the efficacy<br />
of supervised toothbrushing in high-caries-risk children. Caries Res. 2002 Jul-Aug;36(4):294-300.<br />
58 Joyston-Bechal S, Hayes K, Davenport ES, Hardie JM. Caries incidence, mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in irradiated<br />
patients during a 12-month preventive programme using chlorhexidine and fluoride. Caries Res. 1992;26(5):384 – 90.<br />
59 Nordström A, Birkhed D. <strong>Fluoride</strong> retention in proximal plaque and saliva using two NaF dentifrices containing 5,000 and<br />
1,450 ppm F with and without water rinsing. Caries Res. 2009;43(1):64 – 69. Epub 2009 Feb 10.<br />
60 DePaola P., ed. Cariology for the nineties. Caries in our aging population: What are we learning?, Ed. W.H. Bowen and<br />
L.W. Tabak. 1993; 26-35.<br />
61 Baysan A, et al. Reversal of primary root caries using dentifrices containing 1,000 and 5,000 ppm fluoride. Caries Res.<br />
2001;35:41 – 46.<br />
62 Duckworth RM, Morgan, SN, Murray AM. <strong>Fluoride</strong> in saliva and plaque following use of fluoride-containing mouthwashes.<br />
J Dent Res. 1987;66:1730 – 34.<br />
63 Zero DT, Raubertas RF, Fu J, Pedersen AM, Hayes AL, Featherstone JDB. <strong>Fluoride</strong> concentrations in plaque, whole saliva,<br />
and ductal saliva after application of home-use topical fluorides. J Dent Res. 1992;71:1768 – 75.<br />
64 Heifetz SB, et al. A <strong>com</strong>parison of the anticaries effectiveness of daily and weekly rinsing with sodium fluoride solutions:<br />
final results after three years. Pediat Dent. 1982;4(4):300 – 303.<br />
65 Driscoll, WS, et al. Caries-preventive effects on schoolchildren of daily and weekly fluoride mouthrinsing in a fluoridated<br />
<strong>com</strong>munity: final results after 30 months. JADA. 1982:105, 1010 – 13.<br />
66 Leverett DH, Sveen OB, Jensen OE. Weekly rinsing with a fluoride mouthrinse in an unfluoridated <strong>com</strong>munity: results after<br />
seven years. J Public Health Dent. 1985 Spring;45(2):95 – 100.<br />
67 Ripa LW. A critique of topical fluoride methods (dentifrices, mouthrinses, operator-, and self-applied gels) in an era of<br />
decreased caries and increased fluorosis prevalence. J Public Health Dent. 1991;51:23 – 41.<br />
68 Wallace MC, Retief DH, Bradley EL. The 48-month increment of root caries in an urban population of older adults participating<br />
in a preventive dental program. J Public Health Dent. 1993 Summer;53(3):133 – 37.<br />
69 Duarte AR, Peres MA, Vieira RS, Ramos-Jorge ML, Modesto A. Effectiveness of two mouth rinses solutions in arresting caries<br />
lesions: a short-term clinical trial. Oral Health Prev Dent. 2008;6(3):231 – 38.<br />
70 Geiger AM, Gorelick L, Gwinnett AJ, Benson BJ. Reducing white spot lesions in orthodontic populations with fluoride rinsing.<br />
Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 1992 May;101(5):403 – 407.<br />
71 Benson PE, Parkin N, Millett DT, Dyer FE, Vine S, Shah A. <strong>Fluoride</strong>s for the prevention of white spots on teeth during fixed<br />
brace treatment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004;(3):CD003809.<br />
72 Hirschfield, HE, et al. Control of decalcification by use of fluoride mouthrinse. J Dent Child. 1978;45:458 – 460.<br />
73 Radike AW, Gish CW, Peterson JK, King JD, Segreto VA. Clinical evaluation of stannous fluoride as an anticaries mouthrinse.<br />
JADA. 1973;86:404 – 408.<br />
74 Nordström A, Birkhed D. <strong>Fluoride</strong> retention in proximal plaque and saliva using two NaF dentifrices containing 5,000 and<br />
1,450 ppm F with and without water rinsing. Caries Res. 2009;43(1):64 – 69. Epub 2009 Feb 10.<br />
75 McCracken G, Janssen J, Heasman L, Stacey F, Steen N, et al. Assessing adherence with toothbrushing instructions using a<br />
data logger toothbrush. Br Dent J. 2005;198(1):29–32.<br />
76 Zamataro CB, Tenuta LM, Cury JA. Low-fluoride dentifrice and the effect of postbrushing rinsing on fluoride availability in<br />
saliva. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent. 2008 Jun;9(2):90 – 93.<br />
77 O’Reilly MM, Featherstone JDB. De- and reminer alization around orthodontic appliances: an in vivo study. Am J Orthod<br />
1987;92:33 – 40.<br />
78 FDI Commission. Mouthrinses and dental caries. Int Dent J. 2002 Oct;52(5):337 – 45.<br />
79 Stoodley P, Wefel J, Gieseke A, Debeer D, von Ohle C. Biofilm plaque and hydrodynamic effects on mass transfer, fluoride<br />
delivery and caries. J Am Dent Assoc. 2008 Sep;139(9):1182 – 90.<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 21
Online Completion<br />
Use this page to review the questions and answers. Return to www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> and sign in. If you have not previously purchased the program select it from the “Online Courses” listing and <strong>com</strong>plete the<br />
online purchase. Once purchased the exam will be added to your Archives page where a Take Exam link will be provided. Click on the “Take Exam” link, <strong>com</strong>plete all the program questions and submit your<br />
answers. An immediate grade report will be provided and upon receiving a passing grade your “Verification Form” will be provided immediately for viewing and/or printing. Verification Forms can be viewed<br />
and/or printed anytime in the future by returning to the site, sign in and return to your Archives Page.<br />
Questions<br />
1. <strong>Fluoride</strong> has been used in the United<br />
States as an anti-caries agent since the<br />
________.<br />
a. 1930s<br />
b. 1940s<br />
c. 1950s<br />
d. none of the above<br />
2. _________ an intentional source of<br />
systemic fluoride.<br />
a. Fluoridated water is<br />
b. <strong>Fluoride</strong> supplements are<br />
c. Fluoridated salt is<br />
d. all of the above<br />
3. The use of fluoride supplements by<br />
pregnant women _________.<br />
a. results in no benefit for the baby<br />
b. results in a moderate benefit for the baby<br />
c. results in a moderate benefit for the mother and the<br />
baby<br />
d. results in a great benefit for the baby and a moderate<br />
benefit for the mother<br />
4. The Centers for Disease Control and<br />
Prevention (CDC) suggests that fluoride<br />
supplements be given to children living in<br />
areas with _________.<br />
a. suboptimal water fluoridation who are at low risk of<br />
caries<br />
b. suboptimal water fluoridation who are at moderate<br />
risk of caries<br />
c. suboptimal water fluoridation who are at high risk<br />
of caries<br />
d. all of the above<br />
5. Current re<strong>com</strong>mendations are to start<br />
fluoride supplements, if required, at<br />
_________.<br />
a. birth<br />
b. 3 months<br />
c. 6 months<br />
d. 12 months<br />
6. The re<strong>com</strong>mended fluoride supplement<br />
dose for a child age 6-16 years living in an<br />
area with 0.3 ppm – 0.6 ppm fluoride in<br />
the water is _________.<br />
a. 0.25 mg per day<br />
b. 0.5 mg per day<br />
c. 0.75 mg per day<br />
d. 1 mg per day<br />
7. During tooth development, the<br />
cumulative ingestion of fluoride prior to<br />
pre-eruptive enamel maturation results in<br />
________.<br />
a. fluoride ions replacing hydroxyl ions<br />
b. iodide ions replacing hydroxyl ions<br />
c. the formation of fluorapatite crystals<br />
d. a and c<br />
8. Pre-eruptively, formed enamel is bathed<br />
in plasma that contains fluoride and<br />
contributes to the _________.<br />
a. outer fluoride-rich layer<br />
b. inner fluoride-rich layer<br />
c. inner and outer fluoride-rich layers<br />
d. none of the above<br />
9. Fluorapatite crystals formed during tooth<br />
development are _________.<br />
a. smaller than hydroxyapatite crystals<br />
b. stronger than hydroxyapatite crystals<br />
c. more resistant to demineralization associated with<br />
the dental caries process<br />
d. all of the above<br />
10. Systemic fluoride use during tooth<br />
development results in a concentration of<br />
fluoride of _________ in the outer layer of<br />
the enamel.<br />
a. 250 – 500 ppm<br />
b. 500 – 1,000 ppm<br />
c. 1,000 – 2,000 ppm<br />
d. none of the above<br />
11. Inadvertent ingestion of excessive<br />
amounts of fluoride during enamel<br />
development, from all sources <strong>com</strong>bined,<br />
can result in fluorosis and is dependent on<br />
________.<br />
a. the dose of excessive fluoride<br />
b. the age of the child when excessive fluoride<br />
ingestion occurred<br />
c. the duration of excessive fluoride ingestion<br />
d. all of the above<br />
12. Topical fluorides available in the United<br />
States include ________.<br />
a. sodium fluoride and sodium monofluorophosphate<br />
b. acidulated phosphate fluoride<br />
c. stannous fluoride<br />
d. all of the above<br />
13. Topical fluorides act intra-orally by<br />
________.<br />
a. providing periodic high doses of fluoride (in-office)<br />
b. providing low regular doses of fluoride (home-use)<br />
c. providing low periodic doses of fluoride (in-office)<br />
d. a and b<br />
14. During acid attacks, subsurface dissolution<br />
occurs at ________.<br />
a. pH 1.8 - 2.8<br />
b. pH 2.8 - 3.8<br />
c. pH 3.8 - 4.8<br />
d. pH 4.8 - 5.8<br />
15. The intra-oral pH rebounds approximately________<br />
after an acid attack.<br />
a. 15 minutes<br />
b. 30 minutes<br />
c. 45 minutes<br />
d. 60 minutes<br />
16. Disease progression is more rapid in<br />
dentin than in enamel due to ________.<br />
a. the presence of tubules<br />
b. the presence of pulpal tissue<br />
c. the degradation of collagen fibrils<br />
d. all of the above<br />
17. The application of high concentrations<br />
of topical fluoride results in the formation<br />
of ________ at the tooth surface.<br />
a. acid-soluble calcium phosphate-like globules<br />
b. alkali-soluble calcium phosphate-like globules<br />
c. acid-soluble calcium fluoride-like globules<br />
d. alkali-soluble calcium fluoride-like globules<br />
18. Topical fluoride is believed to inhibit<br />
caries activity through _________.<br />
a. bacterial inhibition<br />
b. inhibition of demineralization<br />
c. promotion of remineralization<br />
d. all of the above<br />
19. Topical fluorides result in the retention<br />
of fluoride _________.<br />
a. on the tooth surface<br />
b. in saliva and dental plaque<br />
c. on intra-oral soft tissues<br />
d. all of the above<br />
20. Inhibition of the enzyme _________ impacts<br />
the ability of bacteria to metabolize<br />
fermentable carbohydrates.<br />
a. amelase<br />
b. enolase<br />
c. dentolase<br />
d. none of the above<br />
21. Most of the topical effect of fluoride is<br />
due to _________.<br />
a. the presence of available fluoride<br />
b. the influence of fluoride uptake during in-office<br />
fluoride therapy<br />
c. the influence of fluoride uptake during home-use<br />
fluoride therapy<br />
d. all of the above<br />
22. Omitting plaque removal with a professional<br />
prophylaxis prior to the use of<br />
in-office topical fluorides has been found<br />
to _________.<br />
a. result in no calcium fluoride-like globules being<br />
formed at the tooth surface<br />
b. increase fluoride retention and the efficacy of<br />
fluoride therapy<br />
c. decrease the efficacy of fluoride therapy<br />
d. a and c<br />
23. Available in-office topical fluorides<br />
range from _________.<br />
a. 2,500 ppm – 20,000 ppm fluoride<br />
b. 3,300 ppm – 21,600 ppm fluoride<br />
c. 3,300 ppm – 22,600 ppm fluoride<br />
d. 9,500 ppm – 22,600 ppm fluoride<br />
24. The vast majority of clinical trials,<br />
evidence-based studies and the major use<br />
worldwide of fluoride varnish are as an<br />
in-office topical fluoride for _________.<br />
a. the prevention of dental caries<br />
b. the relief of hypersensitivity<br />
c. cavity linings<br />
d. none of the above<br />
25. Five percent sodium fluoride varnish<br />
has been found to be effective in reducing<br />
caries in _________.<br />
a. the primary dentition<br />
b. the permanent dentition<br />
c. patients with root caries<br />
d. all of the above<br />
26. Clinicians have found the use of fluoride<br />
varnish unit doses _________.<br />
a. simplifies application<br />
b. results in the use of a defined amount of varnish<br />
c. reduces any risk of cross-contamination<br />
d. all of the above<br />
22 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>
Questions (continued)<br />
27. One meta-analysis by Marinho et al.<br />
found an overall caries reduction in the<br />
primary dentition of _________ and<br />
_________ in the permanent dentition.<br />
a. 23%; 26%<br />
b. 28%; 36%<br />
c. 33%; 46%<br />
d. 38%; 56%<br />
28. Acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF)<br />
gels and foams contain _________ ppm<br />
fluoride,and neutral sodium fluoride gels<br />
contain approximately _________ ppm<br />
fluoride.<br />
a. 9,000; 12,300<br />
b. 9,000; 22,600<br />
c. 12,300; 9,000<br />
d. 12,300; 22,600<br />
29. In a meta-analysis of fluoride gels, a<br />
caries reduction average of _________<br />
was found across 14 placebo-controlled<br />
studies.<br />
a. 15%<br />
b. 21%<br />
c. 25%<br />
d. 31%<br />
30. The ADA re<strong>com</strong>mends the use of<br />
_________.<br />
a. one-minute gels<br />
b. four-minute gels<br />
c. fluoride varnish<br />
d. b and c<br />
31. In addition to the ADA re<strong>com</strong>mendations<br />
for professional fluorides, _________<br />
contributes to the selection of in-office<br />
and home-use fluorides.<br />
a. professional judgment<br />
b. product efficacy and safety<br />
c. other considerations<br />
d. all of the above<br />
32. A patient 6 years of age or older with<br />
one/two incipient/cavitated lesions in the<br />
previous 3 years and/or at least one risk<br />
factor would be defined as _________.<br />
a. low risk<br />
b. moderate risk<br />
c. high risk<br />
d. none of the above<br />
33. _________ is a protective factor against<br />
caries.<br />
a. Use of xylitol<br />
b. Use of antimicrobials<br />
c. Optimal fluoride exposure<br />
d. all of the above<br />
34. Alcohol-containing rinses _________.<br />
a. can result in irritation in some patients<br />
b. can result in a drying sensation in patients with<br />
xerostomia<br />
c. should not be used by alcoholics<br />
d. all of the above<br />
35. It is re<strong>com</strong>mended to <strong>com</strong>mence use<br />
of a fluoride dentifrice in children at<br />
_________.<br />
a. 6 months of age<br />
b. 1 year of age<br />
c. 18 months of age<br />
d. 2 years of age<br />
36. In one meta-analysis of 70 dentifrice<br />
trials conducted in children age 16 and<br />
under, an average reduction of _________<br />
in DMFS was found.<br />
a. 19%<br />
b. 24%<br />
c. 29%<br />
d. 34%<br />
37. One study of 5,000 ppm fluoride<br />
prescription paste/gel found a _________<br />
of root caries.<br />
a. 37% remineralization<br />
b. 47% remineralization<br />
c. 57% remineralization<br />
d. none of the above<br />
38. A 24-hour study by _________ et al.<br />
found that nighttime fluoride use resulted<br />
in extended fluoride retention in whole<br />
saliva.<br />
a. Hero<br />
b. Nero<br />
c. Pero<br />
d. Zero<br />
39. In a study by Driscoll et al., a caries<br />
reduction of up to _________was<br />
demonstrated in schoolchildren rinsing<br />
once weekly at school during a 30-month<br />
period with 0.2% sodium fluoride.<br />
a. 35%<br />
b. 45%<br />
c. 55%<br />
d. 65%<br />
40. A study on the arrestment of smoothsurface<br />
carious lesions in 11 – 15-year<br />
olds, with use of 0.05% sodium fluoride<br />
rinse once daily, found an arrestment rate<br />
of _________.<br />
a. 74.4%<br />
b. 78.4%<br />
c. 84.4%<br />
d. 88.4%<br />
41. Sodium fluoride rinses are available at<br />
0.02% concentrations in the United States<br />
and Canada, and these rinses _________.<br />
a. should be used twice daily given the lower<br />
concentration of fluoride<br />
b. have published clinical trials<br />
c. as with 0.05% fluoride rinse, are re<strong>com</strong>mended for<br />
use in children age 6 and over<br />
d. a and c<br />
42. A study on daily use of 0.05% sodium<br />
fluoride rinse in older adults found a root<br />
caries reduction of up to _________.<br />
a. 51%<br />
b. 61%<br />
c. 71%<br />
d. 81%<br />
43. A study on daily use of 0.05% sodium<br />
fluoride rinse in children found a coronal<br />
caries reduction of up to _________.<br />
a. 30%<br />
b. 35%<br />
c. 40%<br />
d. 45%<br />
44. A study on daily use of 0.044%<br />
acidulated phosphate fluoride rinse in<br />
orthodontic patients found a _________<br />
reduction in the development of white<br />
spots.<br />
a. 38%<br />
b. 48%<br />
c. 58%<br />
d. 68%<br />
45. The presence of moderate amounts of<br />
biofilm _________.<br />
a. deters fluoride from reaching the tooth surface<br />
b. repels fluoride from the biofilm<br />
c. increases the retention of intra-oral fluoride<br />
d. none of the above<br />
46. Post-brushing rinsing _________.<br />
a. reduces the level of intra-oral bioavailable fluoride<br />
b. removes fluoride that was just delivered by the<br />
dentifrice<br />
c. is standard practice for most patients<br />
d. all of the above<br />
47. Increasing the flow rate of fluoride<br />
rinse has been suggested as a possible<br />
mechanism to _________.<br />
a. increase the amount of fluoride penetrating biofilm<br />
b. increase the amount of fluoride penetrating the<br />
teeth<br />
c. decrease the amount of fluoride ingested<br />
d. all of the above<br />
48. Adjunctive use of fluoride rinses has<br />
been advocated for _________ patients,<br />
together with routine oral hygiene<br />
procedures, to increase the amount of<br />
available fluoride and increase protection<br />
against caries.<br />
a. low risk<br />
b. moderate risk<br />
c. high risk<br />
d. b and c<br />
49. Successful fluoride preventive interventions<br />
include the use of_________.<br />
a. fluoridated water and fluoride dentifrices<br />
b. professional topical fluorides<br />
c. home use over-the-counter rinses, prescription<br />
pastes, gel and rinses<br />
d. all of the above<br />
50. _________must be considered when<br />
determining the appropriate <strong>com</strong>bination<br />
of preventives.<br />
a. The individual patient’s risk level and age<br />
b. A product’s efficacy and clinical support<br />
c. A product’s safety<br />
d. all of the above<br />
www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> 23
ANSWER SHEET<br />
<strong>Fluoride</strong> <strong>Guide</strong><br />
Name: Title: Specialty:<br />
Address:<br />
E-mail:<br />
City: State: ZIP: Country:<br />
Telephone: Home ( ) Office ( ) Lic. Renewal Date:<br />
Requirements for successful <strong>com</strong>pletion of the course and to obtain dental continuing education credits: 1) Read the entire course. 2) Complete all<br />
information above. 3) Complete answer sheets in either pen or pencil. 4) Mark only one answer for each question. 5) A score of 70% on this test will earn<br />
you 3 CE credits. 6) Complete the Course Evaluation below. 7) Make check payable to PennWell Corp. For Questions Call 216.398.7822<br />
Educational Objectives<br />
1. List intentional and unintentional sources of systemic fluoride.<br />
2. List and describe caries risk factors and the ADA re<strong>com</strong>mendations for in-office topical fluorides corresponding to<br />
different risk levels.<br />
3. List and describe the considerations involved in selecting in-office and home use topical fluorides.<br />
4 List and describe the various home use topical fluorides available and the clinical efficacy of each.<br />
Course Evaluation<br />
Please evaluate this course by responding to the following statements, using a scale of Excellent = 5 to Poor = 0.<br />
1. Were the individual course objectives met? Objective #1: Yes No Objective #3: Yes No<br />
Objective #2: Yes No Objective #4: Yes No<br />
For immediate results,<br />
go to www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong> to take tests online.<br />
Answer sheets can be faxed with credit card payment to<br />
(440) 845-3447, (216) 398-7922, or (216) 255-6619.<br />
Payment of $49.00 is enclosed.<br />
(Checks and credit cards are accepted.)<br />
If paying by credit card, please <strong>com</strong>plete the<br />
following: MC Visa AmEx Discover<br />
Acct. Number: ______________________________<br />
Exp. Date: _____________________<br />
Charges on your statement will show up as PennWell<br />
2. To what extent were the course objectives ac<strong>com</strong>plished overall? 5 4 3 2 1 0<br />
3. Please rate your personal mastery of the course objectives. 5 4 3 2 1 0<br />
4. How would you rate the objectives and educational methods? 5 4 3 2 1 0<br />
5. How do you rate the author’s grasp of the topic? 5 4 3 2 1 0<br />
6. Please rate the instructor’s effectiveness. 5 4 3 2 1 0<br />
7. Was the overall administration of the course effective? 5 4 3 2 1 0<br />
8. Do you feel that the references were adequate? Yes No<br />
9. Would you participate in a similar program on a different topic? Yes No<br />
10. If any of the continuing education questions were unclear or ambiguous, please list them.<br />
___________________________________________________________________<br />
11. Was there any subject matter you found confusing? Please describe.<br />
___________________________________________________________________<br />
___________________________________________________________________<br />
12. What additional continuing dental education topics would you like to see?<br />
___________________________________________________________________<br />
___________________________________________________________________<br />
If not taking online, mail <strong>com</strong>pleted answer sheet to<br />
Academy of Dental Therapeutics and Stomatology,<br />
A Division of PennWell Corp.<br />
P.O. Box 116, Chesterland, OH 44026<br />
or fax to: (440) 845-3447<br />
31.<br />
32.<br />
33.<br />
34.<br />
35.<br />
36.<br />
37.<br />
38.<br />
39.<br />
40.<br />
41.<br />
42.<br />
43.<br />
44.<br />
45.<br />
46.<br />
47.<br />
48.<br />
49.<br />
50.<br />
AGD Code 258<br />
PLEASE PHOTOCOPY ANSWER SHEET FOR ADDITIONAL PARTICIPANTS.<br />
AUTHOR DISCLAIMER<br />
The author(s) of this course has/have no <strong>com</strong>mercial ties with the sponsors or the providers of<br />
the unrestricted educational grant for this course.<br />
SPONSOR/PROVIDER<br />
This course was made possible through an unrestricted educational grant. No<br />
manufacturer or third party has had any input into the development of course content.<br />
All content has been derived from references listed, and or the opinions of clinicians.<br />
Please direct all questions pertaining to PennWell or the administration of this course to<br />
Machele Galloway, 1421 S. Sheridan Rd., Tulsa, OK 74112 or macheleg@pennwell.<strong>com</strong>.<br />
COURSE EVALUATION and PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK<br />
We encourage participant feedback pertaining to all courses. Please be sure to <strong>com</strong>plete the<br />
survey included with the course. Please e-mail all questions to: macheleg@pennwell.<strong>com</strong>.<br />
INSTRUCTIONS<br />
All questions should have only one answer. Grading of this examination is done<br />
manually. Participants will receive confirmation of passing by receipt of a verification<br />
form. Verification forms will be mailed within two weeks after taking an examination.<br />
EDUCATIONAL DISCLAIMER<br />
The opinions of efficacy or perceived value of any products or <strong>com</strong>panies mentioned<br />
in this course and expressed herein are those of the author(s) of the course and do not<br />
necessarily reflect those of PennWell.<br />
Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information<br />
to give the participant the feeling that s/he is an expert in the field related to the course<br />
topic. It is a <strong>com</strong>bination of many educational courses and clinical experience that<br />
allows the participant to develop skills and expertise.<br />
COURSE CREDITS/COST<br />
All participants scoring at least 70% on the examination will receive a verification<br />
form verifying 3 CE credits. The formal continuing education program of this sponsor<br />
is accepted by the AGD for Fellowship/Mastership credit. Please contact PennWell for<br />
current term of acceptance. Participants are urged to contact their state dental boards<br />
for continuing education requirements. PennWell is a California Provider. The California<br />
Provider number is 4527. The cost for courses ranges from $39.00 to $110.00.<br />
Many PennWell self-study courses have been approved by the Dental Assisting National<br />
Board, Inc. (DANB) and can be used by dental assistants who are DANB Certified to meet<br />
DANB’s annual continuing education requirements. To find out if this course or any other<br />
PennWell course has been approved by DANB, please contact DANB’s Recertification<br />
Department at 1-800-FOR-DANB, ext. 445.<br />
RECORD KEEPING<br />
PennWell maintains records of your successful <strong>com</strong>pletion of any exam. Please contact our<br />
offices for a copy of your continuing education credits report. This report, which will list<br />
all credits earned to date, will be generated and mailed to you within five business days<br />
of receipt.<br />
CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY<br />
Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by<br />
contacting PennWell in writing.<br />
© 2010 by the Academy of Dental Therapeutics and Stomatology, a division<br />
of PennWell<br />
24 Customer Service 216.398.7822 www.ineedce.<strong>com</strong>