The review suggests a substantial caries-inhibiting effect of fluoride varnish in both the permanent and the deciduous dentitions based largely on trials with no treatment controls. There is little information concerning acceptability of treatment or possible side effects in the included trials. Given the relatively poor quality of most of the included studies and the wide confidence intervals around the estimates of effect, there remains a need for further trials. It is important that these trials should be of high quality and include assessment of potential adverse effects.
A 24-month study comparing sealant and fluoride varnish in caries reduction on different permanent first molar surfaces.
The aim of this study was to determine the separate effects of dental sealants and fluoride varnish on dental caries in fissured and nonfissured surfaces of permanent first molars.
                A clinical trial was conducted with three groups of 6- to 8-year-old schoolchildren: a sealant group (n = 100), in which Delton was applied to first molars; a varnish group (n = 98), in which Duraphat was applied to first molars; and a control group (n = 116), which had no intervention as part of the study. Absolute and percent caries reductions were compared at 24 months.
                Compared to the controls, sealants resulted in a 68 percent and 87 percent reduction on fissured and nonfissured surfaces, respectively. The corresponding figures for varnish were 38 percent and 66 percent.
                Sealant and fluoride varnish are effective in preventing caries in both fissured and nonfissured surface.