Effect of Fluoride Tablets on Uptake and Loss of Fluoride in Superficial Enamel in vivo

Abstract

The effect of tablets as a mode of fluoride administration was studied in vivo in short-term experiments. Small enamel sections were fixed in the oral cavity of volunteers with acrylic appliances. The fluoride content of the superficial enamel was determined at varying intervals. Daily administration of one tablet containing 1 mg F- as NaF caused a fluoride uptake of about 50 ppm/day in the outer enamel. Discontinuation after 6 days was followed by rapid loss of fluoride. After 10 days, the initial low concentration was reached. It was concluded that in spite of high initial fluoride increase there was no stable binding between fluoride and enamel during this limited period of time.