An investigation to estimate the fluoride uptake adjacent to a fluoride-releasing bonding agent

Decalcification of the teeth remains a problem during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. It has been suggested that bonding agents which release fluoride could supply it to the area of the tooth most at risk from decalcification. The aim of this study was to estimate uptake by enamel adjacent to a fluoride releasing bonding agent. Acid etch biopsies were used to estimate the concentration of fluoride in enamel adjacent to brackets bonded with Vitrabond and Geristore. Results indicate that there was a significant increase in the concentration of fluoride in enamel adjacent to Vitrabond. The clinical significance of the increase in the concentration of fluoride adjacent to Vitrabond and the mechanism by which fluoride moves from the material into the enamel remain unclear.