Authors : Masoumeh Moslemi, Sepideh Khlili, Mohammad M. Shadkar, Amir Ghasemi and Nikoo Tadayon
Abstract: The possible adverse effects of topical fluoride treatment on restorative materials have been the subject of many studies during the last decades. Since, APF gels and sealant materials have many possibilities to interact in the oral cavity, it is necessary to understand such interaction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of APF gel (Sultan) on the microhardness of a filled sealant material (Helioseal F) and an unfilled sealant material (Clinpro). A total of 16 cylindrical specimens (6 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness) from each material were fabricated and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 48 h. Half of the specimens were assigned as the control group and stored in distilled water for the corresponding periods of the fluoridation experiments. For the remaining half, the specimens were treated with 1.23% APF gel for 4 min. The application was followed by removing the gel and storing for 30 min in artificial saliva. Subsequently the specimens were immersed in distilled water for 30 min. The process of APF application was repeated. Vickers microhardness of each specimen was assessed and the results were analyzed using paired t-test (p<0.05). Statistical analysis showed no statistically significant difference between the microhardness values of Helioseal F following APF treatment and controls (11.43±2.35 vs. 12.79±2.16). The microhardness of Clinpro was significantly reduced by exposure to APF gel (11.01±0.89 vs. 12.95±1.52). It seems filled sealants may be a better choice in respect to microhardness, when topical Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride (APF) gel is to be used routinely.
Masoumeh Moslemi, Sepideh Khlili, Mohammad M. Shadkar, Amir Ghasemi and Nikoo Tadayon, 2009. Effect of APF Gel on the Micro Hardness of Sealant Materials. Research Journal of Biological Sciences, 4: 724-727.