Interventions and Procedures
cavitated lesions
CAVITY
Children were randomized at the school level to receive either an experimental condition or standard of care active comparator treatment. The experimental treatment consisted of 5% fluoride varnish applied to all teeth and 38% SDF (2.24 mg/dose of fluoride ion) applied to all asymptomatic cavitated lesions and brushed on all pits and fissures of bicuspids and molars. The standard of care treatment included identical application of fluoride varnish, glass ionomer sealants applied to all pits and fissures of bicuspids and molars, and placement of atraumatic restorations on all frank asymptomatic cavitated lesions.Treatments were provided in a single application after a baseline examination. For the experimental treatment, a single drop of 38% SDF was dispensed into a disposable mixing well and applied as specified for a minimum of 30 seconds. Treated sites were then air dried for a minimum of 60 seconds. For standard of care, a cavity conditioner was applied to pits and fissures for 10 seconds. Glass ionomer sealant capsules were mixed for 10 seconds at 4000 revolutions per minute and then applied directly via the finger-sweep technique and digitally applied to all pits and fissures, ensuring that closed margins were achieved. All treatments were provided in a dedicated room in each school using mobile equipment by dental hygienists or registered nurses with the support of assistants and under the supervision of a licensed dentist. No personalization of the treatment plan was required or performed.