Dectaflur

Dectaflur

Dectaflur is an organic compound used in dentistry as a caries preventive agent. It is a fluoride compound, specifically an amine fluoride, that has been shown to have significant anti-caries activity.

Chemistry

Dectaflur is a white, crystalline powder with a slightly acidic taste. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. The chemical formula for dectaflur is C10H21F17N2O3S. It is a derivative of hexafluorosilicic acid, and is often used in combination with other fluoride compounds such as sodium fluoride and stannous fluoride.

Mechanism of Action

The anti-caries activity of dectaflur is due to its ability to promote the remineralization of tooth enamel and inhibit the demineralization process. It achieves this by forming a protective layer of fluorapatite on the tooth surface, which is more resistant to acid attack than the original hydroxyapatite of the tooth enamel. In addition, dectaflur has been shown to inhibit the growth and metabolism of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that plays a key role in the development of dental caries.

Use in Dentistry

Dectaflur is used in various dental products including toothpastes, mouth rinses, and professional dental gels. It is often used in combination with other fluoride compounds to enhance the anti-caries effect. The use of dectaflur in dentistry is supported by numerous clinical studies demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing the incidence of dental caries.

Safety and Side Effects

Dectaflur is generally considered safe for use in dentistry. However, like all fluoride compounds, it can cause side effects if ingested in large amounts. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, fluoride poisoning. Therefore, dental products containing dectaflur should be used as directed and kept out of reach of children.

See Also

• Fluoride therapy
• Dental caries
• Toothpaste
• Mouthwash