Fluoride Uptake and Remineralization on Neighboring Coated and Uncoated Teeth

Objectives: An experimental coating was developed to improve delivery effectiveness of fluoride and other minerals to strengthen teeth. This study investigated fluoride uptake and remineralization/demineralization of coated and uncoated bovine enamels stored in the same artificial saliva environment.
Methods: Two squared bovine enamel chips potted in the same mold were polished and demineralized to produce a lesion. One chip was coated with artificial saliva, a placebo coating, or a functional coating and the other chip was blank. These tooth enamels were stored in 37^oC artificial saliva for a certain amount of time; the coating was removed and stored in 37^oC artificial saliva for 24hrs, then acid challenged for 24hrs. Fluoride uptake and hardness were measured at different stages.
Results: Results: The results of fluoride uptake and hardness are summarized in the following:
Conclusions: This novel coating delivered significant amounts of fluoride to both coated and neighboring uncoated enamels. The fluoride and minerals in the coating prompted the remineralization of teeth and withstood the acid challenge. ANOVA analysis was performed at p <0.05; there were significant differences with control, placebo and functional coatings for fluoride uptake into enamel and net micro hardness improvement for the remineralization.