Dental Caries Prevention Programs in Low-Income Populations - A Systematic Review

To investigate the effectiveness of various dental caries prevention programs in low-income populations. A PubMed and Google Scholar search identified studies published between 2015 and 2025. Inclusion criteria focused on studies with randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 3-18 years old. Case reports, abstracts, animal studies, and studies with insufficient information were excluded. Data extraction and quality assessment followed PRISMA guidelines and Cochrane's risk-of-bias criteria. After excluding duplicates and studies that were non-compliant with the selection criteria, 10 peer-reviewed studies of initially 384 identified studies were included in the final analysis. MI was found to be particularly effective in preventing early childhood caries. CWF and School-based fluoride mouth-rinse (S-FMR) programs helped reduce caries and inequalities, while SDF treatment was similar to traditional sealants. Fluoride varnish was more cost-effective than fissure sealants. Various dental intervention programs, including MI and fluoride treatments, can significantly reduce dental caries and improve oral health outcomes.