Current fluoride therapy in dentistry for children.

The literature on fluoride therapy for children continues to document the effectiveness of systemic and topical delivery in reducing dental caries in the recipients. The value of optimally fluoridated water supplies continues to be confirmed, but studies reflect a growing concern for an increased prevalence of very mild and mild enamel fluorosis in both optimally fluoridated and fluoride-deficient communities. Studies document the need to educate health care professionals about appropriately prescribing supplemental fluorides. There is evidence of further need to minimize unnecessary ingestion of self-applied fluoride products, particularly dentifrices.