Effect of the Inclusion Nanocomplex Formed of Titanium Tetrafluoride and β-Cyclodextrin on Enamel Remineralization

OBJECTIVE: Titanium tetrafluoride (TiF(4)) is a topical agent used in the control of dental caries; however, it is highly acidic. To minimize this effect, cyclodextrins (CDs) are used. This study evaluated the in vitro potential of TiF(4) and β-CD on remineralization. METHODS: Forty bovine enamel blocks were selected by microhardness and randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10 per group): control (distilled and deionized water), 1% β-CD solution, 1% TiF(4) solution, and TiF(4): β-CD solution. The blocks were subjected to a pH cycling regimen for 8 days. After that, samples were evaluated by cross-sectional microhardness (CSMH), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). Data were assessed for normality and analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Regarding CSMH, TiF(4): β-CD was statistically superior to the control (P = 0.033), β-CD (P = 0.022), and TiF(4) (P = 0.006). SEM photomicrography revealed the titanium dioxide coating on slabs treated with TiF(4) and TiF(4): β-CD. EDS assessment demonstrated the presence of titanium on the surface of slabs treated with TiF(4) and TiF(4): β-CD. CONCLUSION: The solution containing the inclusion nanocomplex formed of TiF(4) and β-CD was able to reharden the enamel subsurface.