Caries-preventive effectiveness of two different fluoride varnishes: A randomised clinical trial in patients with multi-bracketed fixed orthodontic appliances

Abstract

Background: Patients with multi-bracketed fixed orthodontic appliances are at a higher risk of developing enamel demineralisation. Aim: To compare the efficacy of the quarterly application of two varnishes in preventing white spot lesions (WSLs) during multi-bracketed fixed orthodontic treatment. Design: Ninety-nine patients were randomly allocated into three intervention groups: Group A—standard oral hygiene instructions (OHI); Group B—5% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish with standard OHI; and Group C—NaF plus tricalcium phosphate varnish with standard OHI. The outcome was assessed at 6-monthly intervals using a quantitative laser fluorescence device, clinical evaluation and photographic evaluation on six maxillary anterior teeth. A logistic regression model using generalised estimating equations with the intervention group, time and their interaction was used to compare the occurrence of WSLs, whereas the independent-samples Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the means of fluorescent values among different groups at p =.05. Results: Generalised estimating equations (with intervention and time as predictors) showed that only the effect of time was found to be significant (p