Combinations of topical fluorides (varnishes, gels, rinses, toothpastes) versus one topical fluoride for preventing dental caries in children and adolescents

This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows: The primary objective of this systematic review is to assess the evidence on the effectiveness of topical fluoride therapy (TFT) in the form of toothpastes combined with mouthrinses, gels or varnishes in comparison to toothpaste alone, in the prevention of dental caries in children and adolescents. With regard to the clinical effectiveness of TFT in the forms described above three basic questions can be asked: 1‐ Is TFT effective for children and adolescents? 2‐ Is one of these forms of TFT more effective than another? 3‐ Are combinations of these TFT forms more effective than one form used alone? This review attempts to answer the third question and the other two questions are addressed in separate reviews.