Role of Fluoride in Dental Caries and Risk Management

Dental caries is the single most common, chronic oral disease of childhood (Boyce et al., 2010). It is progressive and cumulative, and becomes more complex with time. Contemporary caries management philosophy has changed from the traditional surgical approach to a physician model that emphasizes prevention. Among various strategies for caries management, fluoride therapy has been highly promoted. Dental professionals need to identify and assess the caries risk level of patients and optimize the use of fluorides as part of dental caries management. Since multiple sources of fluoride exposure exist, a coordinated approach to fluoride delivery and safety is essential.