Influence of Fluoride in Solution on Tooth Demineralization

Abstract

In vitro enamel demineralization was studied in undersaturated calcium phosphate solutions containing fluoride in the concentration range 0–10 ppm. Depending on the fluoride concentration either erosion, white spot formation or complete protection of the enamel occurred. With the calcium and phosphate concentrations studied (2.2 mM) 2 ppm F was sufficient at pH 4.5 to effectively inhibit demineralization. In comparing calcium loss measured by microradiography and chemical analysis, good agreement was found between these two techniques.