Application of quantitative light-induced fluorescence to monitor incipient lesions in caries-active children. A comparative study of remineralisation by fluoride varnish and professional cleaning

The aim of this study was to apply the quantitative light-induced fluoresce nce (QLF) method in a randomised controlled study, comparing treatment with fluoride varnish and professional tooth cleaning for remineralisation of w hite spot lesions in caries-active adolescents. In the fluoride varnish gro up (n=13; 32 lesions), professional tooth-cleaning was followed by applicat ion of fluoride varnish at the beginning of the study, after 1 wk, and then once every 6 wk For 6 months. The other group (n=18, 30 lesions) underwent professional tooth-cleaning once every 6 wk for 6 months, Enamel fluoresce nce was measured at baseline and at each visit, in the fluoride varnish gro up there was a significant change over time (baseline: 6 months) For both l esion area: and average change in fluorescence (decreased lesion area and i ncreased fluorescence radiance). The corresponding changes in the professio nal tooth-cleaning group were not significant. There was a significant diff erence in average change in fluorescence between the two test groups, For l esion area, there was: no significant difference, but a tendency towards a difference between the rest groups, It was concluded that (a) the QLF metho d is a sensitive method, suitable For longitudinal quantification of incipi ent caries lesions on smooth surfaces, and (b) that repeated fluoride appli cations had a favourable effect on the remineralisation of white: spot lesi ons as measured after 6 months.