Demonstration of Topically Applied Cariostatic Agents in Human Enamel and Dentin

The objectives of the study were to determine the mechanisms involved in the uptake of tin and fluoride by human enamel and dentin when treated topically with ten percent stannous fluoride solution. The presence of tin and/or fluoride ions were demonstrated by techniques of atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), chemical analysis, histochemical staining techniques and electron microprobe analysis. Most aspects of the procedures employed to obtain these objectives, namely, the use of AAS for the demonstration of tin in hard tissues, histochemical staining procedures and application of the electron microprobe for the determination of fluorides had not been previously developed. These objectives were successfully accomplished. (Author)