What treatment is used to prevent the development of new lesions in advanced or early aggressive ECC?

• A. Diet counseling only
• B. Topical fluoride
• C. Sealants
• D. Systemic antibiotics

Answer: (B)

Topical fluoride is used because it directly strengthens enamel and dentin and helps arrest and prevent new caries lesions. Fluoride promotes remineralization of early lesions, forms fluorapatite that is more resistant to acid, and reduces demineralization at the tooth surface. In advanced or early aggressive ECC, where multiple surfaces are at risk, regular fluoride exposure—professional applications and ongoing home use—provides broad protection and helps prevent the development of new lesions. Diet counseling is helpful but does not offer the mineral reinforcement fluoride provides; sealants protect pits and fissures mainly on occlusal surfaces and aren’t sufficient for widespread ECC; systemic antibiotics do not prevent caries.