Rechargeability of fluoride releasing pit and fissure sealants and restorative resin composites

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of exposure of 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride gel on fluoride release from fluoride releasing pit and fissure sealants and restorative resin composites. Materials and Methods: Specimens of four fluoride releasing pit and fissure sealants (Helioseal F, Ultraseal XT, Seal Rite-Low Viscosity and Seal Rite-Regular Viscosity) and two fluoride releasing restorative resin composites (Tetric and Heliomolar Radiopaque) were prepared using a Teflon mold. The specimens were divided into two groups. The experimental group was exposed to 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride gel and the control group was exposed to 1.23% acidulated phosphate gel without fluoride. The specimens were stored in deionized water and the fluoride concentration of the solution was measured every 24 hours. On day 7, the discs were exposed to the respective gel for 4 minutes and then rinsed in a continuous stream of deionized water for 30 seconds. The fluoride concentration was then measured for another 7 days. Results: There was a significant increase after the fluoride gel treatment in the amount of fluoride released from all of the materials studied. When the cumulative amount of fluoride released was evaluated, Tetric, Heliomolar radiopaque, Helioseal F, and Ultraseal XT released significantly (P < 0.01) more fluoride than the respective control groups. There was no significant difference between groups from day 8 to day 14 for Seal Rite-Regular Viscosity and Seal Rite-Low Viscosity.