Objective: Titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) is a topical agent used in the control of dental caries; however, it is highly acidic. To minimize this effect, cyclodextrins (CDs) are used. This study evaluated the in vitro potential of TiF4 and β-CD on remineralization.
Methods: Forty bovine enamel blocks were selected by microhardness and randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10 per group): control (distilled and deionized water), 1% β-CD solution, 1% TiF4 solution, and TiF4: β-CD solution. The blocks were subjected to a pH cycling regimen for 8 days. After that, samples were evaluated by cross-sectional microhardness (CSMH), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). Data were assessed for normality and analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (α = 0.05).
Results: Regarding CSMH, TiF4: β-CD was statistically superior to the control (P = 0.033), β-CD (P = 0.022), and TiF4 (P = 0.006). SEM photomicrography revealed the titanium dioxide coating on slabs treated with TiF4 and TiF4: β-CD. EDS assessment demonstrated the presence of titanium on the surface of slabs treated with TiF4 and TiF4: β-CD.
Conclusion: The solution containing the inclusion nanocomplex formed of TiF4 and β-CD was able to reharden the enamel subsurface.
Keywords: Beta-cyclodextrins; dental caries; fluoride; microhardness; tooth remineralization.