Current issues in the use of fluorides in dentistry

Britain, along with many other developed countries, has experienced a dramatic decline in prevalence of dental caries. This has been attributed to the widespread use of fluoride toothpastes, which has done much to improve children's dental health. Studies indicate that fluoridation of water supplies would confer an additional benefit to dental public health, while other fluoride vehicles (mouthrinses, topical gels and varnishes, tablets and drops) are valuable in preventing caries in high-risk patients. The authors review the issues involved.