The effect of various fluoride compounds on the development of experimental root surface caries in hamsters.

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of topical applications of various fluoride compounds on the development of root surface caries in hamsters. Male golden hamsters (n = 115) were divided into 7 groups and were given a caries-promoting diet. Six groups were infected with Actinomyces viscosus ATCC 15987; and to 5 infected groups, distilled water (DW) and solutions containing 500 ppmF of acidulated-phosphate fluoride (APF), stannous fluoride (SnF2), copper fluoride (CuF2), and titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) were applied topically to the first mandibular molars once daily, 7 days a week, over a 24-week period. A grid method was used to asses the periodontal changes and root surface caries on the first molars. Plaque accumulation was reduced most by SnF2; and alveolar bone loss was more reduced by SnF2 and CuF2. Root surface caries was significantly prevented in all fluoride groups when compared to an infected control group; and TiF4 was the most effective fluoride compound followed by SnF2, CuF2, and APF. Root caries scores of the TiF4 and SnF2 groups were significantly lower than those of the DW group. It was concluded that all fluoride tested may prevent the development of root surface caries in hamsters.