Fluoride-releasing orthodontic adhesives and topical fluoride effect on enamel caries formation: an in vitro study.

PURPOSE

To examine in vitro orthodontic bonding sealants combined with daily fluoride (NaF) rinse on caries-like lesion depths.

METHODS

Permanent molar teeth (n = 40) were randomly divided into four treatment groups: 1: Pro-Seal, 2: Light Bond, 3: Pro-Seal with NaF rinsing, and 4: Light Bond with NaF rinsing. Orthodontic sealant material was placed on buccal surfaces of each group and surrounded by acid-resistant varnish on the buccal and a control window on the lingual. Each group underwent synthetic saliva rinsing and lesion initiation. Groups 3 and 4 were subjected to 0.05% NaF for 1 minute per day. Artificial caries were created in vitro. The specimens in each treatment group were sectioned and mean lesion depth was assessed with polarized light microscopy (water imbibition). Lesion depth was compared among the treament groups using ANOVA and Duncan's Multiple Range Test.

RESULTS

The ProSeal and Light Bond treatment groups exhibited significant reductions in mean lesion depths as compared to the controls (P < 0.05). ProSeal with NaF rinsing and Light Bond with NaF rinsing treatment groups exhibited significant reductions in mean lesion depth when compared to Pro Seal and Light Bond treatment without fluoride rinsing and controls (P < 0.05). The enamel-resin interfaces of all treatment groups were intact and exhibited no caries-like lesion formation.