Caries-inhibiting effects of different modes of Duraphat varnish reapplication: a 3-year radiographic study

One hundred and sixty 11-year-olds were randomly allocated to two experimental groups, one test (group 1) and one control group (group 2), for a 3-year clinical test comparing different modes of fluoride varnish treatment. In the test group, children received Duraphat varnish treatments 3 times a week, once a year. The children in group 2 were treated with Duraphat every 6 months. During the experimental period, children in group 1 received 9 fluoride varnish applications, and in group 2, 6 applications. Four bitewing radiographs were taken in each child each year for the measurements of the incidence and progression of proximal caries. Repeated fluoride varnish treatment with Duraphat, 3 times a week once a year, appears to inhibit proximal caries progression and development since the children in this group showed even a lower caries status, 1.3 +/- 0.3 DS, at the end of the study compared to 1.6 +/- 0.2 DS at the outset. In group 2, the children increased their caries status from 1.7 +/- 0.2 to 2.4 +/- 0.4 DS during the experimental period. The caries difference was statistically significant (p less than 0.05) between the two groups. A health economic comparison of the two modes of application showed 30% lower costs for the children in the test group based on time used for preventive measures and assumed filling therapy.