What do systematic reviews say?

Xylitol candy (7.5 g/day) vs Control (sorbitol) candy

• Xylitol‐containing products for preventing dental caries in children and adults 2015 · Cochrane All outcomes

  36 months
  The authors reported that there were no adverse effects for either group. Honkala 2014.
  1 study · 252 participants
  GRADE not reported

Fluoride supplementation (tablets, drops, lozenges or chewing gum) vs Topical fluoride (fluoride rinse, varnish or toothpaste)

The review found no eligible studies for this question.

• Fluoride supplements (tablets, drops, lozenges or chewing gums) for preventing dental caries in children 2011 · Cochrane All outcomes
  Summary of findings 2 lists fluorosis (% of children with fluorotic teeth) as 'See comment / Not estimable / Not estimated'; no included study reported fluorosis for the fluoride supplements versus topical fluoride…
  Studies not reported
  No studies found

Fluoride supplementation (tablets, drops, lozenges or chewing gum) vs Topical fluoride (fluoride rinse, varnish or toothpaste)

• Fluoride supplements (tablets, drops, lozenges or chewing gums) for preventing dental caries in children 2011 · Cochrane All outcomes

  24 months
  One study (Holm 1975): no difference between groups (fluoride supplements versus fluoride rinses) for mean plaque and gingivitis scores after 2 years. No summary estimate reported.
  1 study
  GRADE not reported

Fluoride supplementation (tablets, drops, lozenges or chewing gum) vs No fluoride supplement (placebo or no treatment)

• Fluoride supplements (tablets, drops, lozenges or chewing gums) for preventing dental caries in children 2011 · Cochrane All outcomes

  55 months
  % of children with fluorotic teeth (questionable to severe), follow-up 55 months. Assumed risk 32/212 = 15%; corresponding risk 40/202 = 20% (APF once a day) and 43/197 = 22% (APF twice a day). Relative effect: Not…
  1 study · 611 participants
  Very low