Issues to consider when developing a fluoride strategy

A selection of abstracts of clinically relevant papers from other journals. The abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by John R. Radford.

Abstract

'...what is the most appropriate strategy for prevention of caries when there are already low levels of caries...?'

Main

Batchelor P. Fac Dent J 2012; 3: 140–145

Despite the efficacy of fluoridated toothpastes, there is a recalcitrant minority of people who suffer from caries. Solutions may lie in the seemingly disparate areas of fluoride dose-response curves and their associated delivery systems, and social inequalities. As the dose-response is an inverted 'j', doubling the dose of fluoride does not double its efficacy. Additionally, fluoride supplements can also be associated with fluorosis. When considering social inequalities, these should be recognised and confronted. Preventative strategies should not tackle 'the problem on an individual basis' as these may indeed widen oral health inequalities. Instead a population approach should be adopted, working towards improvements in diet not only to reduce such inequalities in dental but also general health.