Evidence in every squeeze: a scoping review of pediatric oral care

Abstract

One of the most common chronic diseases affecting children globally is still early childhood caries. Clinicians and parents are faced with a variety of sometimes contradictory recommendations due to the growing market for fluoride and non-fluoride dentifrices, including biomimetic and remineralizing formulations. To direct pediatric practice, a thorough synthesis of the available data is necessary. The goal is to map and critically summarize the most recent research on pediatric oral care products, with an emphasis on fluoride concentration, substitute remineralizing agents, caries prevention effectiveness, and child safety. In compliance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a scoping review was carried out. A systematic search was conducted for studies published between 2010 and 2025 using electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar). Included were original studies, randomized controlled trials, and systematic reviews assessing oral hygiene products for Children ages 0-14. Data were organized and charted according to safety parameters, clinical outcomes, study design, and type of intervention. Seventy-eight studies satisfied the requirements for inclusion. Across all age groups, fluoride toothpaste (1000–1450 ppm) continuously showed notable caries-prevention benefits. New innovations like nano-hydroxyapatite and other biomimetic substances as viable substitutes with similar remineralization potential and advantageous safety characteristics. Direct comparability was, however constrained by variations in fluoride concentrations, outcome measures, and follow-up periods. Effectiveness was found to be significantly influenced by parental supervision and education. The main role of preventing dental cavities in children is still fluoride toothpaste. Enhancing evidence-based recommendations can maximize preventative measures and enhance the oral health of children everywhere.