Laboratory study of fluoride impregnated toothpicks

The uptake of NaF in wooden toothpicks as well as the release of F- from toothpicks impregnated with either sodium fluoride or amine fluoride was studied. The initial rate of fluoride uptake was found to be high, and an amount of NaF suitable for clinical use was obtained after immersing toothpicks in a 4% NaF solution for about 5 min. When immersed in water or saliva, fluoride was rapidly released from the impregnated toothpicks. The F- concentration registered in saliva collected during use of fluoride impregnated toothpicks varied from about 0.1 part/10(6) F (amine fluoride impregnated toothpicks) to more than 50 parts/10(6) F (extended impregnation with NaF). The results indicate that the clinical potential of fluoride impregnated toothpicks should be explored.