Titanium penetration in human enamel after TiF4 application

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Research
• Caries Prevention

Background:

• Titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) application forms a titanium coating on enamel, enhancing resistance to acid dissolution.
• The extent of titanium penetration into the enamel subsurface remains insufficiently understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence of superficial titanium coatings and titanium penetration depth within human sound and artificially decayed enamel following TiF4 application.
• To compare titanium penetration in sound versus decayed enamel in vitro.

Main Methods:

• Human unerupted third molars were artificially decayed or kept sound.
• Samples underwent a 4% TiF4 application.
• Microprobe analysis using energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS) assessed titanium presence and depth within enamel cross-sections.

Main Results:

• Titanium penetration into the enamel subsurface was confirmed via EDS analysis.
• No statistically significant difference in titanium penetration was observed between sound and decayed enamel groups (McNemar test, p=0.267).
• Titanium exhibited a statistically significant deeper penetration into sound enamel compared to artificially decayed enamel (Wilcoxon test, p=0.047).

Conclusions:

• TiF4 application results in titanium penetration into human enamel.
• While overall penetration is similar, sound enamel allows for greater titanium ingress than artificially decayed enamel.
• Findings suggest potential for enhanced caries protection through TiF4 treatment, particularly in sound enamel regions.