Effect of Fluorides on the Corrosion Properties of Titanium Mini-implants: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review plans to evaluate the effects of fluoride ions on the corrosion properties of titanium mini-implants. Background: Mini-implants are broadly used in orthodontics as an alternative to traditional intraoral anchorage. They comprise of Ti-6Al-4V with a passive oxide film of titanium dioxide for high corrosion resistance properties. To maintain oral hygiene orthodontic patients are often prescribed fluoride mouth rinses, toothpastes, etc, which might affect the corrosion resistance properties of mini-implants. Materials and methods: A literature search by means of proper MeSH terms and PICO format was done using the following databases: Google Scholar, PubMed, and EBSCO HOST. The following studies will be included- Randomized Controlled Trials, Observational studies, In-vivo studies, In-vitro studies, Clinical studies, and Human studies on the corrosion of titanium mini-implants subjected to fluorides. Exclusion criteria included surveys and questionnaire-based studies, review letters, personal opinions, book chapters, and conference abstracts. Results: A total of 134 articles were obtained, and 5 were selected for inclusion in the review. Results showed that fluoride ions significantly dropped the corrosion resistance properties of titanium. Conclusion: The acidic environment due to low pH and increase in the fluoride ion concentration seems to directly affect the corrosion resistance properties of titanium mini-implants, and attention must be paid while prescribing fluoride agents when titanium mini-screws are used.