Fluoride in mixed human saliva after different topical fluoride treatments and possible relation to caries inhibition

Abstract

Fluoride concentrations in mixed [human] saliva were measured at different intervals following topical treatments with various fluoride preparations and procedures, such as, dentifrice, tablets, mouthrinse and topical solution. The results were related to available caries reduction data from corresponding clinical trials previously published. Salivary fluoride levels varied widely reflecting the different dosages applied, whereas the caries reduction data irrespective of type of treatment appear very similar, with a magnitude of .apprx. 30%. When combining salivary fluoride data with recent understanding of enamel-fluoride kinetics it was possible to explain the clinical caries reductions.