INTERACTION OF TIN (II) AND FLUORIDE IONS ON HYDROXYAPATITE CRYSTALS MINERALIZATION ON HUMAN TEETH

Abstract

Objectives: This exploratory study aims to understand the role of stannous fluoride ions, their mechanical properties, and how these ions react with tooth minerals. In addition, we aim to explore the interaction of added stannous fluoride ions on hydroxyapatite crystal organization, morphology, and crystalline phases in enamel remineralization. Also, to understand the mechanism of stannous fluoride ions penetration in demineralized human enamel. Methods: A calcium phosphate calcification solution was prepared for remineralization. Teeth slices were immersed in a calcification solution with desired different concentrations of stannous fluoride, and sodium fluoride ions in a scintillation vial and incubated at 37C for a desired period. SEM was used to examine the morphology and organization of crystals on the enamel surface. EDS and WDS were employed as the primary techniques to analyze the elemental and chemical composition of the tested samples. to assess the hardness, we utilized a Vicker hardness test. Results: Combined SnF2+NaF showed a significant difference in crystal growth morphology in dense-packed needle-like crystals compared to NaF and SnF2. For the hardness test, a one-way ANOVA was conducted with a significance level of 0.05. The findings revealed a significant difference in the average hardness scores between the SnF2+NaF test group (295.89 kg/mm²) and the NaF control group (257.13 kg/mm²), with a p-value of 0.04. Conclusion: SnF2 showed a promising result in remineralization and could play an important role in protecting teeth from caries in combined with conventional fluoride. Further biomimetic studies suggested to mimic the oral cavity to explore the effect of these combined ions.