Do fluoride-containing prophylaxis pastes provide adequate topical therapy?
No. They should not be considered as a sole means of fluoride delivery. The prophylaxis procedure removes the fluoride-rich outer layer of enamel. The fluoride in the prophylaxis paste may be taken up by the enamel but its duration is relatively brief. A topical fluoride application is required to provide meaningful caries inhibition. Suggested Source: Accepted Dental Therapeutics, ed. 39. Chicago, American Dental Association, 1982, pp 360-362.
