Effect of Fluoride Recharge on the Microleakage of Fluoride-Releasing Restorative Materials: An Ex Vivo Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy Study

CONTEXT: Success or failure of a restoration depends on its ability to bond to the tooth structure, to reduce microleakage, and to inhibit secondary caries. Fluoride-releasing materials have the inherent potential to release fluoride and are also capable of recharging themselves with topical agents. AIM: The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the effect of fluoride recharge on microleakage of different restorative materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty extracted teeth were collected and split mesiodistally into 160 specimens. Class V cavities were prepared on buccal and lingual surfaces. Specimens were divided into four groups of 40 each based on the restorative material. Group I: Glass ionomer; Group II: Resin composite; Group III: Giomer; and Group IV: Alkasite. The restored teeth were stored in artificial saliva. Each group was divided into four subgroups for fluoride recharge and subsequent confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) examination: (A) no fluoride recharge and CLSM examination after 24 h, (B) no fluoride recharge and CLSM examination after 3 weeks, (C) fluoride recharge once at third week followed by CLSM examination at 6 weeks, and (D) fluoride recharge twice at third week and sixth week followed by CLSM examination at 9 weeks. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Kruskal−Wallis and Mann−Whitney U tests were performed to analyze the obtained data. RESULTS: A significant difference in microleakage was noted among resin composite and other groups except Cention-N, whereas no significant difference was noted pre- and post-fluoride recharge. CONCLUSION: Increased microleakage was noted post-fluoride recharge, although statistically not significant.