2023 MIPS Measure #379: Primary Caries Prevention Intervention as Offered by Dentists

Measure description

Percentage of children, 6 months - 20 years of age, who received a fluoride varnish application during the measurement period as determined by a dentist

Rationale

The literature reflects that fluoride varnish, when applied to the teeth of high-risk children, reduces, in conjunction with anticipatory guidance provided to the caregiver, the risk of the child developing caries (Weintraub et al., 2006).

Clinical Recommendation Statements

The 2013 American Dental Association (ADA) clinical recommendations for use of professionally applied or prescription-strength, home-use topical fluorides for caries prevention in patients at elevated risk of developing caries:

• Younger Than 6 Years - 2.26 percent fluoride varnish at least every three to six months
• 6-18 Years - 2.26 percent fluoride varnish at least every three to six months OR 1.23 percent fluoride (APF*) gel for four minutes at least every three to six months
• Older Than 18 Years - 2.26 percent fluoride varnish at least every three to six months OR 1.23 percent fluoride (APF) gel for four minutes at least every three to six months (Weyant et al., 2013)