In vivo evaluation of therapeutic potential of fluoride varnishes

Abstract

Purpose: To perform an in vivo evaluation of the therapeutic effect of two fluoride varnishes on the remineralization of active white spot lesions (WSLs). Methods: Children aged 7 to 10 years old (n=20) with 56 active WSLs in the anterior permanent teeth were submitted to four weekly applications of fluoride products: G1-Fluorphat ® (n=28) or G2-Duraphat ® (n=28). WSLs were evaluated with regard to diameter and activity. Data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics (Student's t and chi-square tests), with the significance level set to 5%. Results: At the end of the study, G1 had nine active and 19 inactive WSLs and G2 had seven and 21 inactive WSLs. No difference in mean WSL size was found between G1 (4.37 mm) and G2 (4.76 mm) (P>0.05). In the intragroup analysis, significant differences were found between the initial and final WSL size in both G1 (from 4.37 mm to 2.97 mm) and G2 (4.76 mm to 3.78 mm). Conclusion: The two products tested demonstrated similar clinical efficacy regarding the remineralization of active WSLs after four weeks of fluoride therapy.