[Efficient fluoride enrichment using mucous membrane adhesives with slow release tablets].

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Research
• Pharmacokinetics

Background:

• Conventional fluoride formulations struggle to maintain therapeutic salivary fluoride levels.
• High doses in traditional methods do not guarantee sustained bioavailability.
• Need for improved fluoride delivery systems for enhanced dental care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of mucoadhesive slow-release devices for enhanced fluoride bioavailability.
• To evaluate the efficacy of different mucoadhesive polymers in sustained fluoride delivery.
• To determine optimal formulations for low-dose, long-duration fluoride release.

Main Methods:

• In vitro and in vivo testing of mucoadhesive polymers including polyacrylic acid, polyethylene glycol, and modified corn starch.
• Formulation of tablets containing 0.1 mg fluoride with selected polymers.
• Measurement of salivary fluoride levels over several hours post-administration.

Main Results:

• Polyethylene glycol (mol. weight 300,000) and a modified starch/polyacrylic acid mixture demonstrated high mucoadhesion and biocompatibility.
• Tablets formulated with these materials effectively sustained elevated salivary fluoride levels.
• Low-dose fluoride (0.1 mg) delivery was achieved with prolonged therapeutic effect.

Conclusions:

• Mucoadhesive slow-release devices offer a promising strategy for enhancing fluoride bioavailability.
• These novel delivery systems can achieve sustained therapeutic fluoride concentrations in saliva with low doses.
• This approach represents a significant advancement in fluoride application for improved dental health.