Micro-computed tomographic evaluation of the effect of fluoride agents on white spot lesions: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVE: To investigate remineralizing effect of three fluoride regimens on artificially demineralized enamel around orthodontic bracket by analyzing mineral density (MD) acquired from micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). METHODS: Forty-eight bracket bonded bovine incisors were prepared to create demineralized enamel (DE) surface. The samples were divided into four groups according to the fluoride regimen 1) no fluoridation, 2) 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel, 3) fluoridated toothpaste, and 4) 0.05% sodium fluoride mouthwash. Micro-CT was scanned after demineralization (T0), and 2 weeks (T1) and 4 weeks (T2) of fluoridation. RESULTS: APF gel showed highest remineralization of DE during T1–T0 interval among the groups (p < 0.05); followed by toothpaste, mouthwash and no fluoridation. APF gel and toothpaste demonstrated significant increase in MD after 4 weeks of application (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Remineralization effects of three fluoride regimens were depicted through micro-CT analysis, of which APF gel was most effective.