Reactivity of fluoride dentifrices with artificial caries. III. Quantitative aspects of acquired acid resistance (AAR): F uptake, retention, surface hardening and remineralization.

A pH cycling remineralization/dimineralization model has been used to compare remineralization and acid resistance benefits provided by commercial MFP and NaF dentifrices. Test results show that fluoride dentifrice systems were effective in enhancing lesion remineralization and providing acquired acid resistance (AAR) to carious lesions, with AAR benefits considerably greater in magnitude. Fluoride uptake into the carious lesions was associated with remineralization and AAR benefits. Dentifrices containing the highest levels of soluble ionic fluoride were found most effective in this protocol with MFP dentifrices showing significantly less activity. MFP dentifrice efficacy was enhanced slightly in calcium abrasives. The enhanced activity could be explained by increased levels of background ionic fluoride in the formulations. In contrast to the latter effects, a dual-active NaF+MFP dentifrice in a calcium abrasive system exhibited decreased efficacy relative to a silica abrasive formulation due to incompatibility of free fluoride ion. Comparison of analytical techniques for measurement of AAR in shallow lesions demonstrates that surface microhardness methods match radiographic measures and are thus adequate for ICT measurement of cariogenicity and F remineralization.