Fluoride Levels in Saliva After the Application of Fluoride Varnishes in a Preventive Oral Health Program in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Purpose: Gestation is a time in women's lives when many physiological changes occur that have systemic and oral repercussions, especially in the periodontium. The aim of the study is to determine the oral health status, plaque index, oral health related quality of life, and concentration of fluoride in saliva, after the application of fluorinated varnishes, of pregnant women participating in a preventive oral health program.

Material and methods: A randomized clinical trial was carried out on pregnant patients involved in an oral health program. Data was collected on socio-demographic aspects, hygiene habits, beliefs, epidemiological indexes such as Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT); International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS); Community Periodontal Index (CPI); Caries Management by Risk Assessment (CAMBRA); and the Oral Health Related Quality of Life Index (OHIP-14). Three reviews were carried out during the gestation period (Day 1, 15, and 30). The fluoride varnishes applied in the study were Clinpro White Varnish, Profluorid Varnish, and MI Varnish.

Results: A total of 89 women were evaluated. Most patients were Spanish and married, with a mean age of 34.3. The mean DMFT was 7.2 (± 4.51), the plaque index was 52%, and there was a low risk of caries. A poorer quality of life was linked to an increased risk of caries, high DMFT values, high ICDAS codes, and high plaque index. The concentration of fluoride in saliva immediately after the application with MI Varnish reaches values of fluor concentration 238.51 ± 151.87 much higher than the other varnishes (p < 0.05); however, after 30 days the values were reduced without significant differences for the three study groups Clinpro White Varnish (0.21 ± 0.29), MI Varnish (0.34 ± 0.34) and Profluorid Varnish (0.16 ± 0.07).

Conclusion: In general, pregnant women had good oral health, which improved after participating in the program, and good oral quality of life, with a negative influence due to caries lesions and plaque. In all study groups concentration values dropped to baseline 15 and 30 days after the application of fluoride.