ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effects of various fluoride agents on metallic orthodontic materials. DESIGN: PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase were searched using keyword combinations such as fluoride mouthwash and orthodontic appliance and corrosion, fluoride and fixed appliance, and metal degradation. RESULTS: Of 315 articles, 20 were selected for inclusion in the review. All types of fluoride agents, especially the acidulated form of fluoride, seemed to influence the corrosion of orthodontic metallic appliances. CONCLUSION: Since most of the studies reported suggest that fluoride ions are capable of causing corrosion of metallic orthodontic appliances, attention should be paid while prescribing fluoride agents for orthodontic patients. The degree of corrosion seems to be directly correlated with the acidity of the medium and the concentration of fluoride ions. Co-Cr brackets are resistant to corrosion by fluoride while stainless steel and Ti brackets are susceptible. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: It allows making the right choice while choosing the orthodontic brackets in relation to their susceptibility to corrosion by fluoride ions.
