THE RESISTANCE OF TITANIUM TETRAFLUORIDE-TREATED HUMAN ENAMEL TO STRONG HYDROCHLORIC-ACID

The acid resistance of TiF4-treated enamel was investigated to establi sh a possible treatment modality for endogenous dental erosion. Enamel slabs were prepared from human molars and treated with solutions of T iF4. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and microhardness testing were used to examine the effects of the exposure of the treated enamel to strong acid. SEM micrographs showed the presence of heavy deposits on enamel surfaces. The surface coating, formed following TiF4 applicatio n, appeared to be resistant to severe acid attacks. Microhardness meas urements showed that TiF4 treatment inhibited enamel softening. It is concluded that topical TiF4 application may be effective in prevention of dental erosion caused by hydrochloric acid from the stomach in pat ients with frequent vomiting or gastroesophageal reflux.