Increased Fluorohydroxyapatite across Dentin after Fluoride Iontophoresis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Research
• Cariology

Background:

• Dentin demineralization and hypersensitivity present long-term treatment challenges.
• Fluoride iontophoresis shows potential for mimicking natural remineralization.
• Restoring dentin biomineralization and structural integrity is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of fluoride iontophoresis with different polarities on etched dentin.
• To evaluate structural, compositional, and permeability changes under simulated pulpal pressure.
• To compare cathodal iontophoresis (CIP), anodal iontophoresis (AIP), and topical sodium fluoride (NaF) application.

Main Methods:

• 24 premolars were divided into three groups: CIP, AIP, and topical 5% NaF.
• Iontophoresis treatments were applied to etched dentin.
• Permeability, tubule occlusion, crystal formation, and structural changes were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Both CIP and AIP significantly decreased dentin permeability.
• Iontophoresis increased crystal formation and occluded dentinal tubules.
• CIP restored etched dentin and reinforced its structure by promoting fluorohydroxyapatite formation.
• Topical NaF treatment reduced crystal size and crystallinity.

Conclusions:

• Cathodal iontophoresis (CIP) is an effective, noninvasive strategy for rapid dentin restoration.
• CIP enhances dentin structural integrity through remineralization and fluorohydroxyapatite transformation.
• This technique offers a promising avenue for clinical application in treating dentin hypersensitivity and demineralization.