Fluoride varnishes containing sodium trimetaphosphate reduce enamel demineralization in vitro

Objective: This study evaluated the effects of fluoride varnishes containing sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) on bovine enamel demineralization in vitro. Material and methods: Enamel bovine discs were randomly assigned into six groups (n = 20/group): placebo, 2.5% NaF, 2.5% NaF/5% TMP, 5% NaF, 5% NaF/5% TMP, and a commercial formulation (Duraphat, 5% NaF). Varnishes were applied on all enamel discs and kept for 6 h. Loosely and firmly bound fluoride formed on/in enamel after treatment were analyzed in 10 discs from each group. The other 10 discs were subjected to a pH-cycling regimen for 7 days, and analyzed for surface (SH) and cross-sectional hardness (ΔKHN), as well as for loosely and firmly bound fluoride in/on enamel. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Student–Newman–Keuls’ test (p <.05). Results: The lowest SH change and ΔKHN were observed for the 5%NaF/5%TMP varnish, which was significantly different from all the other groups. Both fluoridated varnishes containing TMP promoted significantly lower SH change and ΔKHN when compared with their counterparts without TMP. Loosely and firmly bound fluoride was significantly lower in groups treated with varnishes containing TMP. Conclusion: TMP and fluoride added to varnishes have a synergistic effect against enamel demineralization in vitro.