Current status of release of fluoride ions and other bioactive agents from dental materials: prospects for controlled...

Many kinds of intraoral systems of bioactive agents have been developed. The cariostatic effect of fluoride ions on enamel caries has been demonstrated through numerous clinical studies. In order to maximize the exposure time of fluoride on enamel for improved prevention of dental caries, fluoride compounds were incorporated into various dental materials and other fluoride-releasing devices were made. The application of fluoride-releasing system is accepted as one of effective caries-preventing procedures. The release of other bioactive agents such as antimicrobial agents (antibiotics, chrorhexidines, eugenols, o-ethoxybenzoic acids and nystatins, etc.) and antiinflammatory agents (benzydamine HCl and steroids) from dental materials and devices have also been investigated. In this article, current status of these systems is reviewed and the therapeutic applicabilities are evaluated.