Anti-Caries and Anti-Microbial Effects of School-Based Fluoride Programs in Myanmar

Objectives: The purposes of this study were to investigate the anti-caries effects of school-based FV application with 3-month interval and FMR weekly on primary teeth and to evaluate the anti-microbial effects of FV or FMR on cariogenic bacteria among Myanmar children.
Methods: A 6-month intervention study was conducted for 234 school children, who were allocated to three groups; Group A received fluoride varnish application with 3-month interval, Group B received weekly fluoride mouth rinse weekly, and Group C received no fluoride application. A clinical oral examination and caries risk tests were performed at baseline and 6-month follow-up.
Results: Caries prevalence and debris score were not significantly changed from baseline to 6-month follow-up in Group A and Group B, whereas dmft (p=0.002) significantly increased in Group C. The plaque and saliva scores of Dentocult^Ò SM in Group A (p=0.048 and p=0.006), and the saliva score of Dentocult^Ò SM in Group B (p=0.042) significantly decreased after six months. On the other hand, the plaque and saliva scores of Dentocult^Ò SM significantly increased in Group C (p=0.002 and p=0.014). Dental caries was significantly less developed after the six months in Group A than Group B and Group C (p=0.046).
Conclusions: More favorable findings were obtained for children who received FV application than those who received FMR or no fluoride application.