ABSTRACT
Topically applied fluoride solutions are an important part of dental therapy in children and adults. They enhance remineralization of partially decalcified enamel, cementum and dentine while reducing sensitivity. Patients with ceramometal restorations may be treated with fluoride preparation. The highly glazed surfaces of porcelain restorations can be etched and roughened by repeated application of fluoride. This study is conducted to know the effect of fluoride containing gels, toothpaste and mouth rinse on the surface characteristics of porcelain fused to metal restoration. Metal substructures measuring approximately 10mm x 1 0mm x 1 .3mm were fabricated and vita-VMK porcelain was baked on them. The porcelain was masked on half of the surface with modelling wax. The specimens were then immersed in the different fluoride solutions for varying time intervals. The modelling wax was removed from all the specimens and surface roughness was measured using a surface roughness analyzer. One-way ANOVA, Mann-Whitney Test, Paired t-test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test were used to evaluate the data obtained. Immersing the specimens in Colgate toothpaste [containing 0.2% NaF], Gelkam tooth paste [containing 0.4% SaF2] Phosflur mouth rinse [containing 4.4mg NaF and APF gel] for 4 minutes, 1 6 minutes, 1 hour, and 24 hours did not cause any surface roughness. Immersing the specimens in Fluorovil [containing APF gel 1 .23%] caused a marked surface roughness on the test surface. Acidulated phosphate fluoride gel [1 .23%] should not be used where glazed porcelain restorations are present