SnF2 as an adjunct to toothbrushing in an elderly institutionalized population

Is 0.4% stannous fluoride gel an effective agent for the prevention of oral diseases?

Research does not support the concept that 0.4% stannous fluoride gels are the preferred preventive or treatment agents for hypersensitivity, plaque, gingivitis, or periodontitis. The only clinically proved, cost-beneficial indications for use of these materials are for the prevention of enamel decalcification in patients wearing banded orthodontic appliances and for the prevention of dental caries in patients who have had head and neck radiation therapy. Even for these applications, other fluoride products may have equal effectiveness.

Control of Streptococcus mutans with topical fluoride in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment

Subjects undergoing orthodontic treatment were asked to brush their teeth twice a day for 6 weeks with stannous fluoride gel or acidulated phosphate-fluoride gel. A reduction in salivary Streptococcus mutans levels was evident in subjects who brushed with the stannous fluoride.

Oral assessment of the dentulous elderly patient

The percentage of elderly persons retaining natural teeth is increasing. Although many of these individuals cannot be convinced to see a dentist regularly, they are generally seen by a physician or nurse relatively frequently. The physician or nurse can provide a vital service for these patients by performing oral screening examinations. A technique is described for accomplishing this.