The Effect of a Stannous Fluoride-Containing Dentifrice on Caries Reduction in Children

Abstract

A stannous fluoride-containing dentifrice at a F2 concentration of 1000 ppm and a Sn concentration of 3200 ppm results in a pronounced reduction in dental caries in 6- to 15-year-old children after using the dentifrice in an unsupervised manner for a period of 6 months. When compared to an identical control dentifrice not containing stannous fluoride, a 53% reduction in decayed, missing and filled (DMF) teeth and a 72% reduction in DMF surfaces resulted. There appeared to be complete protection against interproximal lesions, while the reduction in buccal-lingual surfaces was 70% and occlusal surfaces 26%. All of the reductions are highly significant except the reduction in occlusal surfaces. The reduction of caries appears to be related to the age of the subjects, with the greatest protection occurring in the older age groups of the children. The effect of possible toxic effects through the continued use of a stannous fluoride dentrifrice is discussed.