Comparison of effects of different fluoride containing prophylactics on the growth of Streptococcus mutans on titanium surfaces – an in vitro study

Abstract

The combined use of high fluoride (F-) concentration and acidic pH can weaken the corrosion resistance of titanium (Ti).
Caries prophylactic products contain high amounts of F- and are applied at a low pH. The aim of our study was to determine
whether the different forms of applied flouride has different effects on the growth of Streptococcus mutans on different
titanium surfaces.
Titanium with polished surface were treated with a gel (pH: 4,8) containing 1,25% olaflur, a rinse (pH: 4,4) containing
0,025% olaflur or a 1% aqueous solution of NaF at a pH of 4,5. Control discs were not treated. All discs were incubated
with S. mutans for 21 days. To assess the amount of S. mutans protein assay analysis was performed at 5, 10 and 21
days. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) investigations were also executed.
By the 21st day significant differences could be observed in the bacterial protein quantity. The between group- comparisons
showed that the rinse and gel were superior to NaF or control group (p < 0,01 and p < 0,05). Furthermore signs
of corrosion could be observed in the group of gel treated discs.
The results suggest that amine-fluoride content mouthwashes might be a suitable choice for prevention to the patients
with dental implants.