Effects on demineralization of enamel by fluoridated sucrose: a pilot study in an in situ caries model

Blocks of human enamel, placed in removable partial dentures, were allowed to acquire natural plaque for seven days and were exposed extra-orally to a cariogenic challenge by repeated periods in a fluoride-sucrose solution. As a control, enamel blocks were exposed extra-orally to a sucrose solution. After two weeks of cariogenic challenge, the blocks were examined for mineral loss by quantitative microradiography on thin sections of the enamel. The results from six subjects showed that no significant effect on demineralization could be detected by the addition of fluoride corresponding to fluoride/sugar content of 1 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg (dry weight). One subject did not develop lesions at all, either with fluoride-sucrose or with sucrose exposure alone.