Fluoride alternatives to Dental Caries

Methods of fluoride alternatives are found to be very effective in reducing the prevalence of dental caries. They hold great public health significance as they have helped in the drastic reduction of caries prevalence without exposing the individual to fluoride. They also reduce the risk of detrimental effects of fluorides due to its over consumption such as dental and skeletal fluorosis. Non-fluoridated anti-caries agents include phosphate containing and calcium containing agents. Use of Antimicrobials have a positive effect in the reduction of cariogenic bacteria. To maintain proper oral hygiene various mechanical and chemical measures are used as they help to prevent caries. Oral health education and motivation also plays an equally important role. The simple modification of cariogenic diet to a non-cariogenic diet as well as the use of sugar substitutes for the individuals identified with high caries activity helps to minimize the burden of dental caries. A Caries vaccine and the use of Probiotics for the prevention of dental caries are also seen as a novel approach for caries reduction. Recent advancements for fluoride alternatives are also being developed these days.