Bacground/Aim. Glass ionomer cements (GIC) belong to the group of
polycarboxyl cements, and one of the principal characteristics of these
materials is their anticariogenic potential of fluorine release into saliva
and enamel-dentin substance. The aim of this study was to examine the content
of released fluorine from GIC restorations (Fuji IX, GC, Japan) of young
permanent teeth in the medium of artificial saliva and similar releases in
the same medium by the restorations of these teeth treated with a low
concentration fluoride solution. Methods. We examined 12 premolars exctracted
from orthodontic reasons. The GIC restored teeth were divided into the group
treated daily with low concentration fluoride solution (334 ppm) and the
control, not treated group. The samples of artificial saliva were analyzed
for fluorine ion content using an ion selective electrode. Results. Our
comparative analysis of the mean values using the Student?s t-test
demonstrated a statistically significant difference in fluorine ion
concentration in artificial saliva of fluoridated and non-fluoridated teeth
with GIC fillings after 14 and 21 days (p < 0.05), while the difference
detected after 7 days was with no statistical significance. Conclusion. The
results of this in vitro study indicated that low-concentration fluoride
solutions could serve to refluoridate GIC fillings and contribute to an
increased fluorine content in saliva. The process of refluoridation of GIC
fillings should be advised 2-3 weeks after the restoration, since the release
of fluorine from GIC fillings diminishes in time.