Antiplaque properties of sustained release SnF2: pilot studies

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Cariology
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Dental caries remains a significant public health concern.
• Effective fluoride delivery systems are crucial for caries prevention.
• Intracoronal delivery systems offer localized, sustained fluoride release.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the physical and clinical properties of an intracoronal sustained-release fluoride delivery system.
• To identify an optimal formulation of stannous fluoride (SnF2) within dental cements.
• To assess the in vivo efficacy and safety of a selected SnF2-polycarboxylate cement.

Main Methods:

• Formulation and in vitro testing of polycarboxylate, zinc phosphate, and zinc oxide cements with varying SnF2 percentages.
• Selection of 70% SnF2 polycarboxylate cement based on compressive strength and in vitro fluoride release.
• A 30-day in vivo study using the selected cement as a temporary intracoronal restoration in human subjects.

Main Results:

• 70% SnF2 polycarboxylate cement demonstrated adequate compressive strength and superior in vitro fluoride release compared to other formulations.
• In vivo use resulted in elevated salivary fluoride levels and only transient urinary fluoride elevations.
• Significant decrease in plaque scores observed during the 30-day experimental period.

Conclusions:

• The 70% SnF2-polycarboxylate cement functions as an effective temporary intracoronal restorative material.
• The sustained fluoride release from the cement contributes to reduced plaque accumulation.
• This novel material presents a promising option for localized caries management with minimal side effects.