Fluoride release from orthodontic adhesives

Two commercial orthodontic adhesives containing fluoride were evaluated in vitro for fluoride release. Fluoride release is critical in preventing both decalcification around orthodontic brackets and the formation of white spot lesions. A paste-type adhesive composite resin and a glass ionomer luting agent were compared to a glass ionomer restorative material to determine fluoride release. The composite resin adhesive released minimal fluoride for only three days and then ceased. The glass ionomer adhesive released fluoride at a similar rate to the glass ionomer restorative material with fluoride release still evident at three months.