Systemic absorption of fluoride from alginate impression material in humans

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Dental Materials Science
• Toxicology

Background:

• Alginate impression materials are widely used in dentistry.
• Fluoride release from dental materials is a potential concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify fluoride absorption and excretion following routine alginate impressions.
• To assess the impact of accidental alginate ingestion on fluoride levels.

Main Methods:

• Five adult subjects underwent standard alginate impressions.
• Plasma fluoride levels were measured at baseline and 30 minutes post-impression.
• Urinary fluoride excretion rates were monitored for two hours.
• Whole saliva fluoride concentrations were analyzed at 15 minutes.
• Fluoride levels were measured after deliberate ingestion of small alginate amounts.

Main Results:

• Plasma fluoride increased 2.6-fold, and urinary fluoride excretion increased 2.9-fold within two hours.
• Saliva fluoride levels were over 100 times higher than control at 15 minutes.
• Deliberate alginate ingestion led to sharp increases in plasma fluoride and urinary excretion.

Conclusions:

• Routine alginate impressions result in significant systemic fluoride absorption.
• Accidental ingestion can cause acute fluoride exposure.
• Further research into fluoride release from alginate and patient safety is warranted.