Title: Caries Prevention Among Adolescents: The Effects Of Fluoride Varnish And Gel
Authors: Ergashev Bekzod
Volume: 9
Issue: 7
Pages: 82-85
Publication Date: 2025/07/28
Abstract:
This study investigates the preventive effects of fluoride varnish and fluoride gel in reducing dental caries among adolescents aged 12-16. Dental caries remains a prevalent oral health issue in this age group, often due to poor oral hygiene habits, high sugar intake, and limited access to preventive care. The aim of the research was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of two common topical fluoride treatments-fluoride varnish and fluoride gel-in decreasing the incidence of new carious lesions. A randomized controlled trial was conducted over 12 months, involving 90 adolescents who were divided into three groups: one receiving fluoride varnish every three months, another treated with fluoride gel, and a control group receiving only standard oral hygiene instructions. Clinical assessments were based on the DMFT index, Plaque Index, and radiographic analysis. The results showed that fluoride varnish significantly reduced the mean DMFT score and prevented more carious lesions compared to fluoride gel and the control group. Fluoride varnish also demonstrated higher compliance and fewer procedural complications. Although fluoride gel had a moderate preventive effect, it was less practical for large-scale applications. The study concludes that fluoride varnish is an effective and practical method for caries prevention in adolescents and should be prioritized in public health strategies, especially in school-based programs. Future studies with longer follow-up periods and larger populations are recommended to validate these findings and explore the long-term benefits of regular fluoride application.