Effect of Fluoride Varnish in Preventing Dental Caries of First Permanent Molars: A 24-Month Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial - Click here

This cluster randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of fluoride varnish in preventing dental caries in first permanent molars over 24 months. Children in the intervention group received periodic fluoride varnish applications, while the control group received routine oral health care.

At 24 months, the fluoride varnish group demonstrated a significant reduction in caries incidence and progression in first permanent molars compared with controls. The preventive effect was attributed to enhanced enamel remineralization and increased resistance to acid demineralization during the post-eruptive maturation phase.

The findings support fluoride varnish as a safe, cost-effective, and clinically effective preventive measure for caries control in newly erupted permanent molars, particularly in community-based and school oral health programs.