The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force this week released a draft evidence report and draft recommendation statement on how primary care physicians can help prevent dental caries in young children (birth through age 5 years).
The draft recommendation includes two ways that primary care clinicians can help prevent dental caries in young children:
- Provide fluoride supplements, usually in the form of drops, tablets, or lozenges, to children whose water supply is deficient in fluoride starting at 6 months.
- Apply fluoride varnish to the primary teeth of infants and children once the teeth start coming in.
New evidence showing that children benefit from the application of fluoride varnish has emerged since the task force last examined this topic in 2004, and the evidence in support of oral fluoride supplements remains strong, the task force noted in a press release. However, there is still not enough evidence on whether screening for dental caries by primary care clinicians improves outcomes, so the task force is not able to recommend for or against such screening.
These interventions are more vital than ever because, after decades of decline, the rate of tooth decay in children is rising, particularly among 2 to 5 year olds, noted Glenn Flores, MD, a task force member.
The task force is providing an opportunity for public comment on this draft evidence report and draft recommendation statement on its website until June 17.
