“Effectiveness of Licorice varnish, Fluoride varnish and Combination of Both, on Incipient Lesions of Early Childhood Caries in 3-4 year old preschool children of Belgaum city-A randomized controlled trial”

Abstract

Background – Dental caries is widespread oral health problem with prevalence reaching as high as 80% in some places. Even infants and toddlers are not spared and when this younger group gets infected with caries it is called Early Childhood Caries. Modern medicine, especially fluoride is known for caries prevention since early 1980’s. With rejuvenating interest in herbal medicine, the present research focused on Licorice, root of traditional medicinal plant. Literature so far is affirmative about role of licorice in oral health promotion. Aim – To compare and evaluate effectiveness of indigenously prepared Licorice varnish, Combination varnish with fluoride varnish on initial lesions of Early childhood caries and their antibacterial activity against S.mutans. To assess if parental Locus of Control is associated with caries experience of their children.