Fluoride gels for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents

Using fluoride gels a few times a year would reduce tooth decay in many children, although more research is needed on possible adverse effects.
Fluoride is a mineral that prevents tooth decay (dental caries). Since widespread use of fluoride toothpastes and water fluoridation, the value of additional fluoride has been questioned. Fluoride gels can be professionally or self-applied under supervision, at a frequency from once to several times a year. The review of trials found that fluoride gel can reduce tooth decay in children. As many as one in two children with high levels of tooth decay (and one in 24 with the lowest levels) would have less decay. However, more research is needed on adverse effects, as children often swallow gel during application.