The effect of using topical fluoride with aloe vera extract on frequency occurrence of plaque and caries in early childhood

Background: Risk level of caries in Indonesia is relatively high. Thus, preventive measures are needed to overcome ongoing plaque and caries problems. One of the steps that can be taken in preventing plaque and caries in early childhood is through topical fluoride with aloe vera extract. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to find out more regarding the effect of topical fluoride with aloe vera extract on frequency of plaque and caries occurrence in early childhood. Methods: The method used in this study is systematic literature review. The sources used in the systematic literature review are published sources and are recognized both nationally and internationally and can be accessed through PubMed, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Results: Topical fluoride with aloe vera extract can prevent caries because fluoride works by inhibiting demineralization, increasing remineralization, increasing enamel resistance to acid attack, and reacting with hydroxyapatite to form fluorapatite. Aloe vera also contains anthraquinones, saponins, and flavonoids which have antibacterial properties and can dissolve lipoproteins in bacterial cell membranes. The topical fluoride preparation used is in the form of a gel with a concentration of 12.300 to 12.500 ppm and is used 4 minutes every 3 months and is not overused because it can cause fluorosis. Conclusion: The use of topical fluoride in combination with aloe vera extract has a considerable success rate as a preventive measure in preventing caries in early childhood.