Effects of TiF4 solutions on root surfaces in vitro after different application periods

Abstract

Abstract

Topical application of aqueous solutions of TiF₄ to root surfaces has been shown to result in a rapid uptake of fluoride. The purpose of this study was to assess whether the application period and/or the ionic strength of the TiF₄ solution can be reduced without a corresponding reduction in the fluoride uptake. Root halves from human teeth were exposed to (a) 1% TiF₄ for 10 sec and 1, 2, and 4min, and (b) 3.4% TiF₄ for the same application periods. Root surface areas protected by nail polish served as controls. Transverse ground sections through the treated root surface areas were then prepared and analyzed for F by electron microprobe analysis. Most treated specimens showed F concentrations in the 0.60–1.94% range, whereas control surfaces contained less than 0.30%. Similar F concentrations were found in the surfaces treated with the two solutions. Reducing the application period resulted in a shallower penetration of F into the hard tissue but only a slight reduction of the F concentration in the surface layer. High concentrations of Ti were found on the surface of all treated specimens. This shows that both the application period and the ionic strength of TiF₄ solutions can be considerably reduced and still enable a high uptake of fluoride. The results indicate that TiF₄ may be an efficacious agent for F application to root surfaces under clinical conditions.