Fluoride varnishes and enamel caries

Topical fluoride applications have the aim of increasing the fluoride uptake in enamel and consequently reducing caries. In the early ‘60s fluoride varnishes were introduced because they had a long contact period with the enamel which resulted in a higher fluoride uptake than from other topical applications. Recently the importance of small amounts of fluoride in caries prevention and remineralization has been stressed and the importance of large arnounts of fluoride acquired in the teeth is being seriously questioned. The aim of this thesis (Chapter 1), was to investigate the effect of fluoride varnishes with a relatively low fluoride content on fluoride uptake, on protection against mineral loss and on remineralization of enamel. The fluoride varnishes were polyurethane based (Fluor Protector, Vivadent, Schaan Liechtenstein; abbreviated FP) and contained O.7%, O.1,%, O.O5% and 0% fluoride by weight. ... Zie: Summary