Comparative assessment of fluoride ion release, pre and post recharge among three advanced dental restorative materials: an in vitro study.

Abstract

Introduction: Fluoride, incorporated into restorative dental materials, plays a crucial role in preventing caries by releasing ions that strengthen enamel. However, fluoride release decreases over time, requiring periodic recharging. This study aimed to compare the fluoride release patterns of Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC), Giomer, and SureFil Composite after restoration and after recharge by 1.23% APF gel.

Methodology: Cylindrical specimens of GIC, Giomer, and SureFil were prepared and immersed in deionized water. Fluoride release was measured at the 7^th, 21^st day followed by recharge at 22nd day by 1.23% APF gel and measuring of fluoride release at 30^th and 42^nd  days. Data was analysed by SPSS (version 21) using One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test.

Results: GIC exhibited the highest fluoride release at all intervals, followed by Giomer and SureFil with statistically significant difference (p<0.05). Post-recharge, GIC continued to release the most fluoride, with significant differences between the materials at 7^th and 21^st day (p<0.05). Re-release was highest at 30^th and 42^nd day in GIC after APF application (p<0.05), while SureFil and Giomer showed significant difference at 30^th day (p<0.05) but comparable, lower release rates at 42^nd day (p>0.05).

Conclusion: GIC demonstrated superior fluoride release and re-release compared to Giomer and SureFil. The study highlights the importance of periodic fluoride treatments to sustain the anticariogenic properties of restorative materials.