ABSTRACT
The concept of caries-prevention through topical fluoride treatments had its origin. The greatest benefit from topical fluorides has been shown to accrue to young persons who have newly erupted teeth and who reside in low-fluoride areas. Much effort has been devoted to determination of the mechanism or mechanisms of the cariostatic action of fluorides. The surfaces of all three dental tissues (enamel, dentin and cementum) have been shown to acquire fluoride, or high-fluoride mineral, upon exposure to oral fluid. T. E. Daly and J. B. Drane stated that topical treatments with high concentrations of fluoride have to be continued indefinitely to maintain protection against caries in xerostomia patients. The solubility-reduction theory has been the subject of considerable controversy regarding its importance at the fluoride concentrations found in the dental tissues. Oral hygiene has long been considered important in the control of caries, both on a theoretical basis and in the judgement of many dental practitioners.
