Comparison of dental prophylaxis and toothbrushing prior to topical APF applications.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dental prophylaxis prior to the topical application of acidulated phosphate fluoride solution applied twice a year in schoolchildren. Experimental groups were: Group I--control group, had no treatment. Group II--twice yearly topical application of acidulated phosphate fluoride solution with prior professional prophylaxis with rubber cup and non fluoride paste. Group III--twice yearly topical application of acidulated phosphate fluoride solution with prior toothbrushing with a non-fluoridated prophy paste. After 18 months analysis of 160 children in each study group led to the following conclusions: 1. Acidulated phosphate fluoride topical applications are effective in the prevention of dental caries. 2. The omission of a professional prophylaxis prior to topical fluoride application does not affect significantly the caries preventive effect.