The Effect of Topical Fluoride Applications on the Surface Free Energy of Human Enamel- An in vitro Study

Abstract

The surface free energy γ s and its polar and dispersion components γsp and γsd were determined from contact angle measurements on human enamel treated with sodium fluoride, acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF), and aminfluoride solutions. Sodium fluoride solutions only slightly influenced the surface free energy component γsp. The γsp value of the APF-treated human enamel increased from 52 to 66 erg.cm-2. The γsp value after aminfluoride treatment decreased from 52 to 19 erg.cm-2. The γsd values remained about 35 erg.cm-2 for all specimens measured. It is suggested that aminfluoride-treated enamel surfaces may exhibit a reduced tendency for bacterial adhesion.