The role of fluoride in the preventive management of dentin hypersensitivity and root caries

The objectives were to bring light on fluoride to control dentin hypersensitivity (DHS) and prevent root caries. Search strategy included papers mainly published in PubMed, Medline from October 2000 to October 2011. Fluoride toothpaste shows a fair effect on sensitive teeth when combined with dentin fluid-obstructing agents such as different metal ions, potassium, and oxalates. Fluoride in solution, gel, and varnish give an instant and long-term relief of dentin and bleaching hypersensitivity. Combined with laser technology, a limited additional positive effect is achieved. Prevention of root caries is favored by toothpaste with 5,000 ppm F and by fluoride rinsing with 0.025-0.1 % F solutions, as the application of fluoride gel or fluoride varnish three to four times a year. Fluoride measures with tablets, chewing gum, toothpick, and flossing may be questioned because of unfavorable cost effectiveness ratio. Most fluoride preparations in combination with dentin fluid obstruction agents are beneficial to reduce DHS. Prevention of root caries is favorable with higher fluoride concentrations in, e.g., toothpaste. Fluoride is an effective agent to control DHS and to prevent root caries particularly when used in higher concentrations.