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Morphologic effects on L929 fibroblasts of titanium tetrafluoride application
B H Sen1, R B Kazemi, L S Spångberg
1Department of Restorative Dentistry & Endodontology, School of Dentistry, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey.
Summary
Titanium tetrafluoride and acidulated phosphate fluoride show higher cytotoxicity to L929 fibroblasts than sodium fluoride. pH is a key factor in fluoride solution toxicity, necessitating in vivo evaluation for clinical safety.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Fluoride compounds are widely used in dentistry for their cariostatic properties.
- Understanding the cytotoxicity of different fluoride formulations is crucial for clinical application.
- Titanium tetrafluoride (TTF) is a less common fluoride agent whose effects on cells require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro cytotoxic effects of titanium tetrafluoride (TTF) solution on L929 fibroblasts.
- To compare the cytotoxicity of TTF with sodium fluoride (NaF) and acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF).
Main Methods:
- L929 fibroblasts were exposed to TTF, NaF, and APF solutions.
- Exposure was direct, through a 0.4-micron filter membrane, or indirect via dentin disks.
- Cellular effects were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Main Results:
- Fluoride application on smeared dentin disks exhibited reduced cytotoxicity compared to nonsmeared dentin.
- TTF and APF demonstrated greater cytotoxicity to fibroblasts than NaF.
- Identical fluoride concentrations suggest pH is the primary driver of observed toxicity differences.
Conclusions:
- The in vitro findings indicate that TTF and APF solutions possess significant cytotoxicity.
- Further in vivo studies are essential to determine the clinical safety of these fluoride agents.
- pH-dependent cytotoxicity is a critical consideration for fluoride-based dental materials.
