Dectaflur

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Dental preparations, agents for the prevention of dental caries. ATC code: A01AA51 The protective effect against dental caries and the therapeutic effects of fluorides can be attributed to three factors: Promotion of remineralisation of initial carious lesions. Increased resistance of tooth enamel to acids. Inhibition of the breakdown of sugars by acid-producing microorganisms in dental plaque. In compounds containing amine fluoride, the cation prolongs both the anti-caries protective effect and the therapeutic effect. The polarity between the hydrophobic alkyl chains and the hydrophilic amino groups confers surface-active properties on the cation. These are primarily: A longer retention time of fluoride in the oral cavity. Wetting of the tooth crown. A good ability to react with tooth enamel, allowing chemical changes within a few seconds: incorporation of fluoride into the enamel (a stable fluoride reservoir) and the formation of a labile fluoride reservoir (a surface layer of calcium fluoride). An affinity for dental plaque, leading to a slight increase in fluoride concentration and a longer retention time of fluoride within the plaque. Antimicrobial properties. Inhibition of the breakdown of sugars into acids by bacteria, lasting several hours. Improved adhesion of the fluoride-rich covering layer to the enamel surface, leading to increased acid resistance. The treatment of initial carious lesions through remineralisation of already decalcified areas of enamel is more effective in the presence of fluoride ions, in the form of which phosphates and calcium from saliva are deposited in the partially demineralised enamel. This reaction is promoted by the amine fluorides contained in Elmex gelée, which remains on the surface of the teeth for a long time. For the prophylaxis of caries formation and the supportive treatment of initial caries, it is important to form an adherent, fluoride-rich surface layer that is sufficiently labile, from which fluoride ions can be released over weeks to months at concentrations comparable to those found in fluoridated drinking water. Elmex gelée also forms a surface layer of calcium fluoride on exposed dentine, covering or occluding the openings of the dentinal tubules. This protective film prevents the transmission of external stimuli from the oral cavity, thereby reducing the sensitivity of hypersensitive tooth necks. The relief of pain is not permanent, and desensitisation must be repeated as required.